Public Concern Surrounds Late Nollywood Actor’s Family
The family of the late Nollywood actor John Okafor, widely known as Mr. Ibu, has become a focal point of discussion following a viral video interview featuring his widow, Stella Maris Okafor, and their three children. The interview, conducted by social media influencer King Mitchie and released on June 24, 2026, highlights the family’s financial struggles after the actor’s passing and appeals for assistance.
Power Struggles and Daily Hardships
In the emotional interview, Stella Maris detailed the family’s dire circumstances, revealing that they have been without electricity for two months due to outstanding bills. She mentioned that they now rely on well water for their daily needs, underscoring the severity of their situation.
Children Speak Out in Support
Daughter Chelsea praised her mother’s relentless efforts to provide for the family. She expressed gratitude by stating, “I want to thank God for my mother. She feeds us, pays our school fees, and does everything possible to ensure our happiness.”
Mixed Reactions and Family Disputes Emerge
The interview has garnered mixed reactions online, including from individuals claiming to be members of Mr. Ibu’s family. Comedian Fred Ebert, known as Tenkobo, shared an Instagram video that featured an audio recording allegedly sent by Valentine Okafor, who claims to be the late actor’s eldest son. Tenkobo expressed skepticism about Stella Maris’s portrayal of the family’s financial state, suggesting that it insinuated that Mr. Ibu had left no assets behind.
Claims of Mismanagement and Property Sales
According to Tenkobo, Mr. Ibu had made investments in real estate before his death, raising questions about the whereabouts of those assets. Another voice in the ongoing saga, Somtochukwu Okafor, also professes to be a son of the late actor. In a recent video, he alleged that Stella Maris sold several of Mr. Ibu’s properties without fairly distributing the proceeds among the children. He criticized her for ignoring requests for financial help, including for WAEC exam fees.
Allegations of Financial Discrepancies
Somtochukwu detailed specific instances regarding the sale of properties in Lagos, Enugu, and Asaba. He claimed that his father’s Lagos property was sold for NOK 60 million, yet none of the children were informed. He further stated that his mother has been neglecting his cries for financial support, stating, “When I contacted my mother requesting help for WAEC, she said she had no money.” He also mentioned that funds donated during Mr. Ibu’s illness had not been shared.
Financial Support and Previous Controversies
Mitchie clarified that a total of N7.5 million was raised by generous Nigerians and sent to Stella Maris in light of their situation. In response to Somtochukwu’s accusations, Stella Maris asserted that three individuals were involved in the transaction of her husband’s estate, countering that the Enugu property’s proceeds were allocated towards burial expenses. This ongoing financial drama is not Stella Maris’s first public controversy; in 2023, disputes arose over funds raised for Mr. Ibu’s medical care, sparking allegations that indicated attempts to misappropriate donations.
