Nollywood actor Mr Ibu’s family targeted in alleged fraud plot, 2 arrested

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Nollywood actor Mr Ibu's family targeted in alleged fraud plot, 2 arrested
Mr. Ibu on a sick bed

In a startling revelation, the Nigerian Police, through its Force Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department in Ikoyi, Lagos State, has apprehended two individuals, Onyeabuchi Okafor and Jasmine Okekeagwu, for their alleged involvement in a plot to defraud veteran actor, Mr John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, of N55 million.

The arrest follows a petition from Diamond Waves Law on behalf of Mr Ibu's wife, Stella, accusing the actor's sons, Onyeabuchi and Valentine Okafor, along with his adopted daughter, Jasmine Okekeagwu, of conspiring to defraud Mr Ibu.

The police, through spokesperson ASP Mayegun Amina, revealed that the investigation uncovered a conspiracy where the suspects manipulated Stella, took possession of Mr Ibu's phone and hacked into the banking details. They allegedly reinstalled the banking app, transferred N55 million from the publicized fund-raising account dedicated to Mr. Ibu's medical bills, and planned an escape from the country, disguising it as a sham marriage.

The statement further disclosed that N50 million has been recovered from the suspects, who have been charged with conspiracy and stealing at the Chief Magistrate's Court 1, Yaba. The suspects were granted bail, and the case has been adjourned to March 11, 2024. The case file has been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution for legal advice.

In December 2023, SaharaReporters reported on Mr. Ibu's health struggles, including undergoing another leg amputation. The actor, barely able to talk, had launched a public fund-raising initiative to finance his medical bills. The police investigation now sheds light on the alleged fraudulent activities surrounding the fund, prompting legal action against the accused parties.

As Mr Ibu continues to battle health challenges, the case highlights the vulnerability of public figures and the importance of ensuring the transparency and integrity of fundraising efforts intended for their well-being.

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