Fresh controversy has emerged within the family of late Nollywood actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, after his son, Okafor Somotochukwu, accused his stepmother, Stella, of taking control of the actor’s estate following his death.
In a statement circulating online, Somotochukwu, who identified himself as the late actor’s third son and fourth child, disputed suggestions that Stella’s children were Mr Ibu’s only surviving children. He said the actor had several children and claimed the interests of some family members had been overlooked.
Somotochukwu alleged that Stella sold multiple properties belonging to the late actor without involving other children. He claimed a property in Lagos was sold for ₦60 million, another in Enugu for about ₦17 million, and a property in Asaba for ₦11 million.
According to him, he received only ₦40,000 from Stella, which he described as a gift rather than a share of proceeds from the estate.
He also raised concerns about donations reportedly received during Mr Ibu’s illness, alleging that substantial funds were contributed by Nigerians before the actor’s death. Somotochukwu said he continues to face financial difficulties, including challenges paying school fees and accessing his WAEC results.
The allegations surfaced shortly after Stella reportedly appealed for public financial assistance. The claims have sparked debate online, with some Nigerians calling for transparency in the management of the late actor’s estate, while others have urged the family to resolve the matter privately.