The Weird Truth Behind Mr. Ibu’s N55m Fraud Scandal

iexclusivenews – Nollywood star Mr. John Okafor, aka Mr. Ibu, has been a victim of fraud by his own family. The Nigerian Police arrested his son, Oyeabuchi Okafor, and his foster daughter, Jasmine Okekeagwu, for stealing N55 million from him.

According to a press release by the police spokesperson, ASP Mayegun Amina, the Force Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department (FCID) in Ikoyi, Lagos State, acted on a petition from Diamond Waves Law, representing Mr. Ibu’s wife, Stella.

The petition alleged that Mr. Ibu’s sons, Onyeabuchi and Valentine, and his adopted daughter, Jasmine, conspired to defraud the ailing actor, who is suffering from a leg amputation and other health issues.

Mr. Ibu’s Fund-Raising Initiative

As iexclusivenews reported in December 2023, Mr. Ibu had to undergo another leg amputation and could barely speak. The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) appealed for prayers and support for the veteran actor.

To cover his medical expenses, Mr. Ibu launched a public fund-raising campaign and received donations from his fans, colleagues, and other generous people.

He opened a bank account and announced it to the public for the purpose of collecting the donations.

How Mr. Ibu’s Family Hacked His Account

The FCID investigation revealed that Onyeabuchi and Jasmine took advantage of Stella’s trust and access to Mr. Ibu’s phone.

They hacked his banking app and transferred N55 million from the donations to their own accounts. They also planned to flee the country after a fake marriage.

The police recovered N50 million from the suspects and charged them with conspiracy and theft at the Chief Magistrate’s Court 1, Yaba.

They were granted bail and the case was adjourned to March 11, 2024.

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecution will also review the case file for legal advice.

Mr. Ibu’s Condition and Treatment

Mr. Ibu, who has starred in dozens of Nollywood movies such as Keziah, 9 Wives, and Mr. Ibu in London, has not disclosed the cause of his illness that led to his leg amputation.

He has undergone seven surgeries and needs one more.

Some of his medical bills have been paid by former Senate President Bukola Saraki.

His family has thanked the donors for their generosity and asked for more help to fund his treatment abroad.