‘Stop Using Mr Ibu’s Name To Beg’ – Actor Tenkobo Slams Late Actor’s Widow

Nollywood comic actor Fred Ebere, popularly known as Tenkobo, has criticized Stella Maris Okafor, the widow of late veteran actor Mr Ibu, for publicly seeking financial assistance.

The criticism comes after Stella Maris appeared in a video shared by influencer King Mitchy, where she appealed to Nigerians for help, claiming she could not afford her house rent and her children’s school fees.

Reacting to the viral video, Tenkobo accused Stella Maris of using the late actor’s name and legacy to solicit money from the public. He also alleged that Mr Ibu’s family had sold several of the actor’s investments, including houses and landed properties, and questioned what became of the proceeds.

According to Tenkobo, Mr Ibu made wise investments during his lifetime and did not leave his family without assets.

He said:

“Does it mean that because you are the wife of a legend, you should not work, get handwork, or have something doing? What if Ibu is not an actor?”

Sharing details of a phone conversation with Mr Ibu’s first son, Valentine Okafor, Tenkobo explained that he was deeply upset after seeing Stella’s video.

He said:

“Guys, that’s the voice of Mr Ibu’s first son, Valentine Okafor. He is in his late 30s, if he is not yet 40. Because when I saw the video by Stella, I vex. I had to call the boy and I said, ‘See wetin I see.’ The boy broke down.”

The actor also spoke about his long-standing relationship with Mr Ibu, saying they were more than colleagues.

“My relationship with Okafor started from colleagues to friends, from friends to father and son, and from father and son to partners in crime. That’s how much my relationship with him grew.”

Tenkobo claimed that Stella had made similar public appeals while Mr Ibu was still alive.

He further disputed her claims about the actor’s children.

“Now claiming that Chelsea is the only daughter, na lie. Ibu get plenty children. His first girl is in her late 20s. She’s the one that carried his photo frame during the burial.”

Questioning the family’s handling of Mr Ibu’s assets, he added:

“That man made money from Nollywood and he invested the money. One of the greatest problems wey Ibu get na family, both his immediate brother and his wives and sons. Ibu tried very well to invest.”

He continued:

“The question now is, who sold all his landed properties that he invested in? He bought plenty of lands and houses. Did he sell them before he died? No be una still sell all his properties? After selling those properties, what did you do with the money?”

Tenkobo urged Nigerians to be careful about the narrative surrounding the late actor’s legacy.

“Anybody that wants to help Stella should not help her with the mindset that Ibu did not invest or leave anything behind. Ibu did well. He planned his life well and also invested in the lives of every member of his family and associates.”

He concluded by questioning the family’s management of the late actor’s estate.

“This video by Stella is not necessary. It’s just to bring the man’s name into the mud. What did she do with the money from the last house she sold?”

Mr Ibu, one of Nollywood’s most celebrated comic actors, passed away in 2024 after battling a prolonged illness. Since his death, issues surrounding his family and estate have continued to attract public attention.