The widow of late Nollywood actor John Okafor popularly known as Mr Ibu, Stella Maris Okafor, has denied allegations that she secretly sold her late husband’s properties and kept the proceeds for herself.
This comes after the late actor’s family recently opened up about their financial struggles and internal disputes following his passing.
Speaking in a video interview with content creator King Mitchy, Stella Maris explained that the sale of the properties was carried out legally under a court order and with the full consent of Mr Ibu’s two sons, Valentine and Daniel Okafor.
According to her, all necessary documents are available to support the transaction, stressing that the decision was not made by her alone.
She also revealed that she currently runs an online jewellery business, noting that her late husband had once discouraged her from pursuing it while she was active in Nollywood.
Stella further shared plans to leave her current residence, describing it as too expensive and explaining that she only moved there due to security concerns and pressure from the public after her husband’s death.
Addressing claims by a young man who alleged online that he is one of Mr Ibu’s children and was denied financial support, Stella said tensions over money started shortly after the actor’s burial.
She alleged that some family members demanded a share of the money given to her during the burial, which she insisted was meant for the welfare of her children.
Watch the full video here.
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Backstory:
The controversy follows the death of veteran Nollywood actor John Okafor in March 2024 after a prolonged battle with illness that led to the amputation of one of his legs. Following his passing, disputes reportedly emerged within the family over his assets, finances, and welfare support.
In recent weeks, some family members and individuals claiming ties to the late actor accused his widow, Stella Maris Okafor, of secretly selling some of his properties and withholding the proceeds. The allegations gained traction online after the family publicly spoke about their financial struggles.
Responding to the claims, Stella Maris said the property sale was carried out legally under a court order and with the consent of Mr Ibu’s sons, insisting she has documents to prove it. She also alleged that tensions over money began shortly after the actor’s burial, with some relatives demanding a share of funds given to her for her children’s upkeep.
