The Central Planning Committee for the burial of the late Nollywood actor, John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, has debunked claims that the family was soliciting funds for burial.
Naija News reports that Mr Ibu will be buried on June 28, 2024, in his hometown of Amuri, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.
In a statement made available to journalists in Enugu on Monday, the Chairman of the burial Committee, Monday Diamond Ani, described the claim of Mr Ibu’s family begging online as “manipulating, malicious, fabricated and engineered by the evil gang against Mr. Ibu even while on the sick bed and after his death.”
He noted that the Central Planning Committee, not minding the several millions of Naira consumed by the late John Okafor’s sickness in several hospitals in Nigeria, had made several plans for Mr Ibu’s burial. 
Ani said some notable friends and family members of the late actor had distanced themselves from claims and warned the ‘evil-doers, image destroyers of celebrities on social media’ to desist from tarnishing Mr Ibu’s personality to avoid the wrath of God.
Speaking on the events lined up as part of activities for the burial of the late actor, Ani said a star-studded tribute performance will be held at the Base Event Center Enugu, and a novelty match to honour Mr Ibu, among others.
Ani also thanked the Enugu State Government and some individuals for their support so far, especially in providing accommodations, security personnel in different categories, mobility, and some funds.
He added, “Among the artistes expected are: Rudeboy, Flavour, Odumeje, Akpororo, Chinyere Udoma, Gozie okeke, Felix Ndukwe, Paul Nwokocha, Able Cee, Anyidons, Kola boy, just to mention few.
“Star appearance include: Chief Pete Edochie, MON, Osuofia, Patience Ozokwor (Mama G), Osita Iheme (Paw Paw) and Chinedu Ikedieze (Aki), Mercy Johnson, Rachel Okonkwo (NKOLI), Destiny Etiko, Chinwe Owo, Victor Osuagu, Charles Anwurum, Ngozi Ezeonu, Amb Emeka Rollas, the AGN President, and many other star actors.
“A documentary of the life and time of John Okafor will be showcased.
“The night of tribute which is coming up on June 26 will be preceded by a novelty match which will be played on June 25 between celebrities and personalities against Rangers International football club of Enugu at Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.
“I want to make it categorically clear that there was never a time when such publication emanated from us.
“It’s the handwork of some miscreants, enemies of progress who must have wished for Mr. Ibu’s death and are perhaps happy that Mr. Ibu is no more and wanted to use this medium or avenue to tarnish the name of Mr. Ibu and the Okafor family in general.
“It is a fact that a fund is being raised to support the burial of Mr ibu which is customary in Igbo land where well wishers will be contributing funds to support the burial.
“Some will even bring live cows, provide financial support, provide help in logistics and that’s what is happening in the case of Mr Ibu, so it is not a taboo.”
The post Mr Ibu’s Family Not Begging For Fund – Committee Unveils Burial Plans For Late Actor appeared first on Naija News.
