He has been for the past four years, the most popular and dominant Nollywood actor in the comedic genre. His manner of speech, body language and gesticulations are guaranteed to send you reeling with laughter. Any movie he is featured is guaranteed to become a hit – especially with those who love comedy. Who would forget his spectacular performance alongside the queen of comedy – Funke Jenifa Akindle in this year’s hit movie – Sheri-Koko – a performance that many have confessed made them see that movie several times over? – That John Okafor, alias Mr. Ibu is the most hilarious and rib-cracking actor today in Nollywood is no longer in dispute – he, as a matter of fact, owns that genre.

Last summer, Mr. Ibu was made to endure a nightmarish situation, which one would not even wish upon his or her worst enemy – the kidnap of one’s spouse and the wickedness and meanness of the captors, who daily would tell you the countdown to one’s spouse’s death is on and if the ransom was not paid – in the exact amount and on time. Mr. Ibu’s wife was kidnapped and held hostage for almost two weeks. “Those two weeks were the most harrowing time of my life and I still shudder in fear when I remember what we, as a family went through.” Mr. Ibu had told me as we sat at Nanet Suites Nollywood Lounge in Abuja for a breakfast meeting, during my last month’s visit to Nigeria.