The Nigerian Police, through its Force Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department in Ikoyi, Lagos State, has arrested Oyeabuchi Okafor and Jasmine Okekeagwu for allegedly conspiring and defrauding Mr. John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu, of N55 million.
In a press statement on Thursday, the FCID disclosed that they acted on a petition from Diamond Waves Law on behalf of Mr. Ibu’s wife, Stella, alleging that the actor’s sons, Onyeabuchi and Valentine Okafor, along with his adopted daughter, Jasmine Okekeagwu, conspired to defraud Mr. Ibu.
The police statement issued by the spokesperson, ASP Mayegun Aminat, read, “Investigation into the case established that as part of efforts to fund his medical bills, Mr. Ibu launched a public fund-raising initiative and attracted donations from his fans, entertainment industry players, and other well-spirited members of the public into a bank account which he publicised and dedicated for the purpose.”
The FCID revealed that Onyeabuchi and Jasmine manipulated Stella, took possession of Mr. Ibu’s phone, and hacked into the banking details.
They were said to have reinstalled the banking app, transferred N55 million from the donations, and planned to escape from the country after a sham marriage.
The police said N50 million has been recovered from the suspects, and they have been charged with conspiracy and stealing at the Chief Magistrate’s Court 1, Yaba.
They were said to have been granted bail, and the case adjourned to March 11, 2024.
The case file has also been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution for legal advice.
Newsclick Nigeria reported in October 2023 that Mr. Ibu had undergone multiple surgeries and was seeking further treatment abroad, with his family expressing gratitude for the donations received from his fans.