Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has mourned veteran actor Olu Jacobs, who died at age 84. This comes after the son of the deceased, Olusoji, announced his father’s death on Instagram.
Reacting to the news via a press statement posted on his X handle, Atiku described the veteran actor as an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit.
The former Vice President added that the Nollywood icon will be remembered for giving life to our stories, dignity to our culture and inspiration to countless younger actors who followed the path he helped to clear.
His words, “I am profoundly saddened by the passing of Olu Jacobs at the age of 84.
Nigeria has lost far more than a great actor; we have lost an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit.
For generations of Nigerians, Olu Jacobs was a familiar and commanding presence in our homes.
That unmistakable voice, the dignity he brought to every role and the sheer force of his talent made him one of those rare artists who did not merely act before an audience, but became part of our collective memory.
Long before Nollywood became a global phenomenon, Olu Jacobs was already carrying the Nigerian name with distinction.
Through decades of dedication to his craft, he helped lay the foundations upon which an entire industry would rise.
He gave life to our stories, dignity to our culture and inspiration to countless younger actors who followed the path he helped to clear.
My heart goes especially to his beloved wife and lifelong partner, Joke Silva, their children and the entire Jacobs family.
I pray that the memories of the beautiful life they shared with him will bring them strength through this painful season,” he said.
Olu Jacobs gave Nigeria his talent, his voice and a lifetime of excellence. Nigeria will remember him with pride, affection and profound gratitude. May God grant his soul eternal rest and comfort his family in this hour of grief.”
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