In response to a recent public plea by the popular comic actor John Okafor, famously known as Mr Ibu, seeking assistance for an undisclosed health issue that could potentially lead to the amputation of his leg, a social media controversy has erupted.

Reno Omokri, a former media aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, took to his online platform to call upon Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, to contribute to Mr. Ibu's medical bills. Omokri argued that Mr Ibu had endorsed and campaigned for Peter Obi during the 2023 general elections, making it a moral obligation for the LP candidate to assist the actor in his time of need.

In response, Kanayo O. Kanayo, a seasoned actor in the Nollywood industry, expressed his strong disapproval of Omokri's statement in a video shared on his Instagram page. Kanayo condemned Omokri's actions, deeming them unkind. He emphasized that giving is a personal matter and should not be used to pass judgment on others.

Kanayo stated, "As actors, our hearts go out to our dear colleague, Mr. Ibu. His family has done their best since it was reported last year, and now they have come out to say we have done our best, we need public support. Now, I condemn in strict terms Reno Omokri, who is coming to call Peter Obi's name and so on. It is not a friendly thing. It's wicked."

He continued, "It's an individual thing to support a colleague. It becomes a collective thing as the Actors Guild of Nigeria. Don't forget some people learn to give personally privately. Even those who have given can be appreciated based on what they gave to John Okafor. We appreciate your efforts in giving, but nobody should use it as a platform to criticise or indict those who have not given. It's wrong, and we don't support it. So, this is a warning. If you want to give, give."

The debate surrounding public support for Mr. Ibu's medical needs highlights the complexities of personal charity and the importance of handling such matters with empathy and sensitivity.