Stella Maris Okafor, widow of beloved Nollywood actor John Okafor (popularly known as Mr Ibu), has publicly shared her struggle with depression following her husband’s passing. The grieving widow described life as unbearable since Mr Ibu’s death in March 2024, revealing that only her children give her strength to continue.
Heartbreaking Revelation
In an emotional social media post, Stella Maris expressed her ongoing battle with depression. “I’m passing through depression right now,” she wrote. “Only those close to me will understand how much I’ve suffered. I can’t wait for God to answer my prayers—my children are my only happiness.” She emphasized the severity of her condition, adding: “Depression is real.”
Twin Tragedies
Before this disclosure, Stella had revisited another painful memory—the death of her son 13 years ago. She recalled how the child, who would have turned 16, died after being poisoned. Following their kidnapping, medical staff allegedly neglected him at the hospital. These dual losses—her son and later her husband—have created deep emotional wounds that continue to haunt her.
Mr Ibu passed away on March 2, 2024, after a prolonged health battle involving multiple surgeries and leg amputation. During his illness, Stella had revealed the family faced significant financial and emotional strain, with several foreign hospitals refusing further treatment.