Mr Ibu: ‘This Is A Warning, Don’t Use Your Giving To Indict Others’ – Kanayo O. Kanayo

Veteran Nollywood actor, Kanayo O. Kanayo, has blasted those criticising top Nollywood stars over the health condition of their colleague, John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu.

Naija News reported that Mr Ibu recently cried out for prayers following his battle with an unnamed illness, which may lead to the amputation of his legs.

In a video shared via his social media page, the comic actor solicited help while asking for prayers to overcome his predicament.

The video sparked reactions from critics online, with some like Reno Omokri and Uche Maduagwu, slamming Mr Ibu’s colleagues for neglecting him in his time of need.

In response, Kanayo, in a video shared on his verified Instagram account on Thursday, debunked claims of Nollywood stars and the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) deserting the comic actor.

He noted that some A-list movie stars had supported Mr Ibu and would not be beneficial to announce it publicly; therefore, people should not consider it an opportunity to criticise those who have not financially supported the ailing actor.

Kanayo warned people not to use Mr Ibu’s illness to chase clout on social media.

He said, “Hello friends, good morning. As actors, our heart goes out to our very dear colleague, John Okafor (Mr Ibu). His family have been doing their very best since he was reported sick last year and now they have come out to say that they have done their best and need public support. It is not in any sense wrong.

“Would you feel bad or better if we kept quiet and allow our colleague to die? I condemn in strict terms Reno Omokri who is calling Peter Obi’s name and so on. It is not a friendly thing, it is wicked; and the other guy, I think Uche Maduagwu talked about shame on top actors. Shame on you too. I say shame on you because you don’t have any value or level to call our names.

“It is an individual thing to support a colleague. It becomes a collective as the Actors Guild of Nigeria who have tried their best in such a limited time. Don’t forget some people like to give privately as individuals without their names being mentioned. We will as individuals support our colleague, we will as individuals support our colleague.

“Nobody should use this as a platform to castigate and impugn or indict those who have not given. It is wrong and we don’t support it… This is a warning, if you want to give, give. We as ‘top actors’ as you call us give at our own levels. It is not very beneficial or important when we announce it.

“Don’t use our colleague’s name, John Okafor (Mr Ibu) to trend just because you want a name. Stop seeking attention.”