Veteran Nollywood actor and musician Harry B Anyanwu has taken a bold step to rescue a fellow thespian, actress Maureen Okpoko, who has been living with blindness for years. In a heart-wrenching video recorded in Enugu, Harry B directly appealed to the Nigerian film industry and the general public to rally round Okpoko and fund her medical treatment, insisting that her condition is not beyond redemption.
The video, which quickly went viral on social media, shows Harry B standing beside the veteran actress, visibly emotional as he makes his case. He stressed that Okpoko, once a celebrated face on Nigerian screens, deserves a second chance at sight and called on everyone, irrespective of tribe or status, to contribute towards her recovery.
Harry B’s Passionate Plea to Nollywood and the Public
Speaking with urgency in the clip, Harry B identified himself as “the OG before IG” and “the oldest rapper in the Masai Masa,” but his focus was clearly on his colleague’s plight. He said: “Nollywood, please, let's reach out and support her. She's blind, but she can restore her sight; all she need is support. Harry B, I'm here, I'm here for her. Bikonu, I'm appealing to all of us Igbo, Hausa, and all of us. Beacon, let's support Maureen Okpoko, one of us. She's blind, she can't see. God bless you as you support her.”
The actor’s words carry a deep sense of frustration, especially as Okpoko reportedly lost her sight years ago. Harry B pointed out that with the right medical care and financial backing, her vision could be restored, calling on the industry not to abandon one of its own in the twilight of her career.
Fans Question Nollywood’s Neglect as Reactions Pour In
The video triggered a wave of reactions from social media users, many of whom expressed disbelief and anger that a veteran actress could be left to suffer in obscurity. Some fans demanded accountability from the younger generation of Nollywood stars who flaunt wealth online, while others prayed for Okpoko’s recovery.
On Instagram, @ajuju2005 wrote: “So all this young girls in that Nollywood that showcasing money and buying cars here and there can't support her.” Another user, @_BadVillain, commented: “So why haven't yall helped her since years ago una just abandon am, why want to help her all of a sudden.” The sentiment was echoed by @PEOPLESMED73171, who warned: “Una better support her now not when something happen to her now you guys will now be wearing white clothes for fashion parade to her burial ground.”
Several users also queried the state of welfare in Nollywood. @great_buikb9 asked: “What is really happening to them In the nollywood industry. Only few are very buoyant to take care of themselves while the rest I thought they are being paid well?” Meanwhile, @xtianoofficial offered a prayer: “Jehovah please help restore her sight and may help come her way in Jesus Name amen.”
A Broader Crisis: Veteran Actors Often Forgotten
Maureen Okpoko’s situation is not an isolated case in the Nigerian entertainment industry. Over the years, several veteran actors and actresses have publicly lamented lack of support, medical care, and financial stability after their heyday. Harry B’s appeal shines a spotlight on how the industry often fails to contain its pioneers, leaving them to rely on public charity.
The Enugu-born actor’s call also resonates beyond ethnic lines, as he specifically mentioned Igbo and Hausa communities in his plea, signaling that the need for solidarity is universal. By standing with Okpoko in the video, Harry B not only draws attention to her plight but also challenges other celebrities to do the same.
Related: Chidera Adiele Seeks Help for Brother’s Mental Struggles
In a similar act of advocacy, Nollywood actress and art curator Chidera Adiele recently appealed for public assistance over her younger brother’s prolonged battle with drug addiction and mental illness. According to Legit.ng, Adiele revealed that her brother’s condition began in 2019 after he gained admission into the University of Lagos. Despite treatment in at least seven psychiatric facilities, no lasting solution has been found, she said.
Adiele, who has been the primary caregiver, confessed to exhaustion and frustration, pleading for help as her daughter continues to live in fear due to the unstable situation at home. Her story, much like Okpoko’s, highlights the pressing need for stronger support systems for Nigerian entertainers and their families.
As Harry B continues to champion Okpoko’s cause, the hope is that Nollywood and the public will respond swiftly. The actress’s sight could yet be restored, but time is of the essence. The veteran actor’s passionate appeal might very well be the turning point in a story that has touched the hearts of many across Nigeria and beyond.
