“I’m Fighting To Survive” – Mr Ibu’s Widow Opens Up On Her Battle With Depression

Stella Maris Okafor, widow of the late Nollywood legend John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, has opened up about her ongoing battle with depression following the loss of her husband and son.

According to Ireporter Online, the grieving mother shared an emotional video on Instagram, where she expressed how difficult life has become since her husband’s death in March 2024. She admitted that coping has been an uphill struggle and revealed that her children remain her only source of strength and motivation to keep going.

In her words, “I’m passing through depression right now; only those close to me will understand. I have suffered a lot. I can’t wait for God to answer my prayers. My children are the only happiness I have. Depression is real.”

Her emotional post came shortly after she shared a picture of her late son, recalling the tragic circumstances surrounding his death thirteen years ago. Stella recounted that her son, who would have been 16 this year, died after being poisoned during a kidnapping incident. She alleged that negligence by medical staff at the hospital worsened the situation, leading to his untimely death.

The actress’s widow reflected on the compounded pain of losing both her son and husband, admitting that the emotional scars have been difficult to heal.

Mr Ibu, who was widely celebrated for his comedic brilliance, passed away on March 2, 2024, after a prolonged illness that resulted in multiple surgeries and a leg amputation. During his health crisis, Stella had disclosed that the family endured both financial and emotional hardship, as several hospitals abroad declined to accept him for further treatment.

Her recent revelation has drawn an outpouring of sympathy from fans and colleagues who continue to offer prayers and support for her healing and strength.