Entertainment
Why I no longer eat food cooked by my wife, Mr Ibu speaks on marital crisis
Comic actor, John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu speaks about his family crisis, career, and other issues
What is the state of your marriage right now?
This is my final marriage. If this one falls apart, I won’t marry again. This is my fifth and the worst marriage, because my wife adopted what is not obtainable. This feels like punishment; not marriage. I doubt if I am still in the marriage, because it seems she has already prepared her mind to leave, and I’m not going to stop her. I support her leaving. Each time I see her, I begin to breathe erratically, and it is not good for me, because I am not ready to die. There are opportunities God exposed me to that are of interest to me.
Were you married when you adopted your daughter, Jasmine
After my fourth marriage, I adopted Jasmine. She was still a girl of about 12/13 years old when i adopted her.
Why did you adopt her?
It was because nobody cared for her. She was abandoned. I usually go to places and listen to people. She came to me and told me she was interested in acting. She does not know who her biological father was, and her mother didn’t use to discuss anything about him with her. She told me she used to watch my movies, and she loved me so much and would like to be in my care. I asked her what level of education she had, and she told me to help her complete her education; which I did. She bears my name, but it wasn’t until later that the adoption was legalised. Her mother consented to me adopting her.
It was said that it was after you recovered from the poison attack that you started having issues with your wife. Is that true?
Right from time, she had never allowed me to rest. When I was hospitalised and she came to the hospital, it was like war. She kept complaining that I did not care for her and the children. I made arrangements to give her some money, but she said it was not enough; that I should add something to it. I did, and after she left, she did not come to see me again throughout my stay in the hospital.
When you were to marry your wife, you said you introduced her to Jasmine. What was her initial reaction seeing your adopted daughter amidst your other children at that time?
Everything about me and Jasmine was known to everyone; and my wife kept on asking when she would meet her. I introduced her to Jasmine, and they became very good friends. Jasmine started sponsoring the family, buying foodstuff, and giving my wife money. Sometimes, my wife would leave the house to go and stay with Jasmine. Everything was going fine.
What then made her change and cause her to question your relationship with Jasmine?
There was one lady from my town that was close to the family. This lady wanted more than what God had given her; and when she was not getting it, she started causing trouble in my home by poisoning my wife’s mind.
When we were at the police station recently, the Divisional Police Officer asked her if I was guilty of all she said I did? She said ‘no’; that I should know that nobody would like to put a case in the public domain and lose. She said that she was only trying to win the case. So, my wife’s younger brother, her friends, and the lady from my town knelt down and were begging me in the presence of the DPO. Before then, my wife’s younger brother was ready to fight me in my own house. This was the same boy that said he wanted to play football outside Nigeria, and I singlehandedly took him to different clubs, where he was tried but was not selected in any of the trials. I actually lost money in that process.
But it was after the incident with the police that your wife went on social media to post all those negative remarks about you and Jasmine?
It was that same lady from my town that did all that. We called her and she apologised. When she had an issue with her business, I took her out of Abuja to Enugu; and gave her a house and money. I told her that whatever business she was interested in, she should let me know, and I would support her. But, after 11 months in Enugu, she said she wanted to return to Abuja. All she has been doing is to create chaos here and there.
Did you warn your wife about her when you saw that they were getting close?
I just told her to be careful, because I could not stop both of them from going out. But, my wife said nothing would happen; but, we can now see the outcome.
Some people are of the opinion that your wife is acting up because you don’t treat her as a wife, while you gave those privileges to Jasmine. What’s your reaction to that?
That is not true. When I married her, she did not have a car; and her family could not buy her a car. I bought her three cars at once. I told her to use one for church, one for domestic errands; and the third one going out with her friends. However, the day I gave her those cars was when my problem started. I allowed her to do her things her own way. But, she started moving with different women; and sometimes, I hear them ask her why she is still in the marriage.
You have been poisoned on different occasions. How have those incidents affected your relationship with people?
I have landed properties, and about 10 cars. I see the women my wife is moving with as being greedy. They have eyes on my properties. They feel like if anything happens to me, my wife would be the one to get everything.
I was poisoned but I don’t know where it came from. I survived the first attempt; then, the second one came. I investigated the second attempt, and discovered that someone from my town was actually contracted to poison me. I suspected my wife, and I confronted her, but she denied it. I followed up until I got the man that brought the poison to the compound, and gave it to somebody to use it on me. I went to the man and told him that I got his message. I asked him if I had done anything bad to him. But, he acted oblivious of the incident. I went through hell because of that poison. I could not breathe well, and I cried every day. I later vomited things and went to the hospital where I was given a supplement that restored me back.
I went back to living my life; but I was poisoned again. My cousin came out to say that I was showing him that I was rich. He went ahead to threaten me. I had to go and hire a gun, with the intention of going to the village to kill him. But, when I got home, he was not there. I sat in my car because I did not want it to look like someone directed me. I was waiting for him, when my late father appeared to me, and told me that if I did what I intended to do, my world would be in shambles and I would regret it. I then drove off. While on my way, I saw my cousin, and he was calling out to me to stop, but I did not. If not that my late father appeared to warn me, I would have killed him.
How is the relationship between you and your wife now?
Since the recent incident, she has been so loving. But, I know it is all a pretence just to get my attention. I still show her love, providing money for domestic needs and making sure the family is fine. But, I am very skeptical. I cannot eat her food anymore. For now, I only eat from Jasmine’s kitchen. She cooks a lot, and I like eating.
You seem to be closer to Jasmine than your other children. Why is that so?
That is because Jasmine is so mature. She is also in the media. I have 12 sons, and four daughters. My first son is married with four children; some of my children are graduates, while some are still in school.
When did you realise you had dementia, and how did it affect you and your family?
Sometimes, my mind would just trip off. I could be sitting, and just forget that I was holding something. I could even be counting money, and throw it in the dustbin. It is after I must have thrown it away that I would remember it was money. I would then have to retrieve it from the trash. Sense is very costly. Once I remember anything about my wife, my mood would change instantly.
Since your recovery from the poison incident, you hinted that you would be returning to set. What are your plans in that regard?
Most of the scripts (I was getting) before now were not worth it, so while I stayed back due to my illness, I took time to go through some of the new scripts they sent to me, I realised that some of the writers were not reasoning well. I then consulted some professional writers to advise some of their members on the issue of debating a particular topic before going ahead to write about it. They listened to my advice and some of them are now re-writing their already written scripts. I will soon be back on the screen.
Why did you leave the Peoples Democratic Party for the Labour Party?
No matter the manipulations from the other political parties, Peter Obi (presidential candidate of LP) is coming. We know that the first result might favour another person, but we will not give up.
As an actor known for only comical roles, have you ever wanted to act different characters?
I am ready for any role but the marketers demand my services specifically for comic roles. The movie I am presently working on has to do with guns, and I told them (filmmakers) that it does not make sense. If I carry a gun, I could kill my boss and say it was a mistake (laughs). But, they said I must do it. I have started rehearsing it, and it is going well.
Aside from acting, what other areas do you have interest in?
Acting exposes me to the world, and I travel a lot. When coming back to Nigeria, I buy things that I can sell here. By the time I sell those things, I would then make profit. I buy everything my wife wears from outside Nigeria. She is usually excited whenever I come back from such trips, because she knows that I won’t disappoint.
Your last born looks so much like you. Have you seen any sign that any of your children will follow in your footsteps, career-wise?
I don’t know what that boy saw. He did not see any other person to resemble but me. However, he should leave my footsteps, and follow another person’s own. If he wants to act, he can go ahead; but not for him to follow in my steps. He is a fine boy.
How do you unwind?
If I am not working, I would be at home. I neither drink nor smoke. I don’t go out often too. I am usually in my house, playing with my wife and children.
Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has claimed that he received N100 million for participating in campaign activities organised by the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The street-pop singer made the claim in a video circulating on social media on Friday, where he was seen wearing an APC-branded shirt and a cap bearing the name of Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi. He also displayed campaign materials featuring the politician.
Portable alleged that he woke up to discover that N100 million had been credited to his bank account, claiming that the payment was made on Adeola’s instructions in recognition of his participation in the campaign activities.
Expressing excitement over the alleged payment, the singer thanked the senator and another individual identified as IBD Dende.
“My dearest fans! I just woke up to an alert of N100 million from Yayi! IBD Dende, oga mi! God bless you. Thank you! Yayi instructed them to send me the money,” he said.
Portable also recounted how he had initially been sceptical after some associates informed him that Adeola was looking for him, recalling a previous occasion when he allegedly received no money despite similar assurances.
He, however, expressed gratitude to God and the politician, describing the alleged N100 million payment as a significant financial boost.
The latest claim comes weeks after the singer publicly acknowledged receiving payment for participating in APC campaign activities in support of President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In October, Portable appealed to President Tinubu and his son, Seyi Tinubu, for additional payment after performing at an APC rally held at the Onikan Stadium in Lagos on October 13.
In a video recorded after the rally, the singer was seen lying on the stadium floor, complaining about the physical demands of entertaining supporters and requesting an opportunity to meet the President and his son.
“I want to see President Tinubu and Seyi Tinubu; they have almost squeezed me to death. I have fainted; it is President Tinubu that is winning. Did we not collect money? President Tinubu, pay me more money; I am feeling so much heat,” he said.
Although Portable acknowledged receiving payment for his participation in the rally, he maintained that his efforts deserved additional compensation.
In another video that circulated earlier in October, the singer claimed that the money he received from campaign activities had improved his financial situation following a period of financial difficulties.
However, Portable’s latest claim of receiving N100 million has not been independently verified. The alleged transaction, including its source, purpose and circumstances, remains unclear.
Entertainment
Diewait Ikpechukwu Dies at 71: Nollywood Veteran, Former Footballer, Husband and Father
Veteran Nollywood actor, Diewait Ikpechukwu, has died at the age of 71, following a prolonged illness.
Ikpechukwu, who was also a former footballer, reportedly died on Thursday, November 5, 2026, according to a family source.
His death was announced on Friday by the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Alhaji Abubakar Sanusi Yakubu, who paid tribute to the late actor in an Instagram post.
“Another Legend bows out!! RIP Diewit Ikpechukwu,” Yakubu wrote.
Although details surrounding his death remain sketchy, his passing has thrown the Nigerian film industry into mourning, marking another loss to a generation of actors who contributed to the growth of Nollywood.
From Football to Nollywood
Born on August 23, 1955, Ikpechukwu had an interesting career journey that took him through football, broadcasting, telecommunications and eventually the Nigerian film industry.
Before becoming an actor, he was a talented footballer who played as a right winger during the 1970s. His footballing abilities reportedly earned him an invitation to the Green Eagles camp, Nigeria’s former senior national football team.
He played for football clubs including Blue Diamonds of Nsukka and Kaduna Rocks. He also captained the Kaduna Polytechnic football team.
However, he reportedly declined the opportunity to pursue a career with the national team following his father’s insistence that he prioritise his education.
Educational Background and Career
Ikpechukwu attended Comprehensive High School in Awo-Omamma, Imo State, before proceeding to Kaduna State Polytechnic, where he obtained a Higher National Diploma in Marketing.
He subsequently completed his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and later obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing from Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT).
While studying in Kaduna, he developed an interest in broadcasting and reportedly worked with radio stations as a football commentator.
Before venturing fully into entertainment, he worked with the Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL), where he served as a business office manager.
His journey into acting gained momentum through television productions at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Enugu.
Acting Career and Movies
Ikpechukwu made his feature film debut in 1998 in Evil Men, where he portrayed a traditional ruler alongside established Nollywood actors, including Pete Edochie, Alex Usifo and Liz Benson.
He subsequently built a career spanning more than 25 years, becoming particularly recognised for portraying kings, traditional rulers, elderly statesmen and other influential characters in Nigerian films.
Some of the productions he featured in include Royal Palace (2005), The Guilty (2006), Across the River (2006), Python King (2007), Omera (2019), A Dance to Forget (2020), Emecheta (2021), Nwando (2021) and Ìjé Love (2022).
His commanding screen presence and ability to interpret traditional roles made him a familiar face to Nollywood audiences.
Contribution to the Actors Guild of Nigeria
Beyond his acting career, Ikpechukwu was actively involved in the Actors Guild of Nigeria and served as the pioneer chairman of the guild’s Enugu State chapter.
He was also passionate about mentoring upcoming actors and encouraging young people seeking careers in the entertainment industry.
He reportedly advised aspiring actors against desperation in their pursuit of fame, urging them to take their craft seriously, dedicate themselves to every role and avoid exploitation.
Outside acting, he was also reported to have owned a communications company.
Family
The late actor was married to Gloria Ikpechukwu and was blessed with children and grandchildren.
His death marks the end of a remarkable journey that cut across sports, broadcasting and entertainment.
As tributes continue to emerge, colleagues and admirers will remember him for his contributions to Nollywood and his efforts towards nurturing emerging talents.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be officially announced by the family.
Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru has died at the age of 57 following a brief illness, his family has announced.
The family disclosed his death in a statement posted on the actor’s official Instagram page in the early hours of Friday, expressing gratitude to fans, colleagues and well-wishers for their prayers and support.
“We, the family of Francis Duru, regret to announce his passing following a brief illness.
“We appreciate your prayers, love, and understanding. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen,” the statement read.
The family did not disclose the nature of the illness or announce funeral arrangements as of the time of filing this report.
Duru’s death comes months after he dismissed reports that he was battling a life-threatening illness. In June, a video showing him looking frail circulated on social media, raising concerns among fans and colleagues.
The actor subsequently released a video on Instagram, describing the footage as “fabricated and malicious” and dismissing the claims about his health.
Early Life and Education
Born Francis Ogide Duru on July 27, 1969, in Cameroon to Nigerian parents from Imo State, the actor spent his formative years in the Central African country, where he completed his primary and secondary education.
He later returned to Nigeria to pursue his university education at the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he studied Theatre Arts and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1996.
His academic background in theatre helped lay the foundation for a career that spanned more than three decades, during which he established himself as one of Nollywood’s recognisable performers.
Rise to Fame in Nollywood
Duru began his acting career in 1989 with Missing Mark, a film directed by the late filmmaker Ndubuisi Oko.
However, his breakthrough came in 1995 when he played Ahanna in Rattlesnake, an action-comedy produced by the late filmmaker Amaka Igwe.
The film became a defining production in the history of Nollywood, and Duru’s performance helped bring him wider recognition among Nigerian audiences.
His portrayal of Ahanna remains one of the roles associated with his rise during the formative years of Nigeria’s home-video film industry.
Over the years, Duru demonstrated his versatility by featuring in films across different genres, including drama, crime, family stories and comedy. He worked alongside several established actors and filmmakers, building a reputation for his ability to interpret diverse roles.
Notable Movies
Throughout his career, Duru featured in numerous Nigerian films and productions. Some of his notable screen credits include:
- Missing Mark (1989)
- Rattlesnake (1995)
- Blood Money (1997)
- Narrow Escape (1999)
- Home in Exile (2010)
- Nnenda (2009)
- Stigma (2013)
- Mortuary Gate (2014)
- Lipstick (2016)
- Who Killed Chief? (2017)
- Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons (2018)
- Why Not? (2019)
- The Good Husband (2020)
- Mboputa (2020)
- The Locals (2021)
- Blood Vessel (2023)
- Abigail’s Memoir (2024)
- Ugly Bird (2024)
His extensive filmography reflected his ability to remain relevant across different generations of Nollywood productions, from the industry’s early video-film era to more recent cinematic releases.
Awards and Industry Contributions
Duru received several honours in recognition of his contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry.
In 2007, he was named a United Nations Ambassador of Peace in recognition of his positive influence on young people.
He was appointed interim president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) in 2010, reflecting his involvement in the affairs of the professional body representing Nigerian actors.
In the same year, he received a nomination for Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards.
In 2020, he won the Best Actor in a Leading Role in an Igbo-language film category at the Best of Nollywood Awards for his performance in Mboputa.
Beyond his acting career, Duru was also associated with humanitarian and youth-development initiatives, contributing to efforts aimed at improving the welfare and opportunities available to young people.
Family Life
Duru married his wife, Adokiye, in 2003, and they had four children together.
The family suffered a devastating loss in August 2024 when their son, Ifeanyi, died at the age of 15.
The actor publicly mourned his son at the time, attracting messages of sympathy and support from colleagues, fans and members of the entertainment community.
His death on Friday marks the loss of a veteran performer whose career connected different generations of Nigerian cinema.
With memorable roles in productions such as Rattlesnake, Blood Money and Mboputa, Duru leaves behind a body of work that reflects his contribution to the growth and development of Nollywood over more than three decades.
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