Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has mourned the passing of veteran Nollywood actor, Olu Jacobs, who died at the age of 84.
In a post on his official X handle on Wednesday, Atiku described the late actor as far more than a great performer, saying Nigeria had lost an institution and a cultural icon.
‘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,’ Atiku wrote.
He said that for generations of Nigerians, Jacobs was a familiar and commanding presence in their homes, noting his unmistakable voice, dignity and talent.
‘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,’ he said.
Atiku noted that long before Nollywood became a global phenomenon, Jacobs was already carrying the Nigerian name with distinction, laying the foundation for the industry through decades of dedication.
‘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,’ he stated.
He said Jacobs’ death felt personal to a nation that had watched and admired him.
‘The curtain may have fallen on an extraordinary life, but the characters he gave us, the standards he set and the generations he inspired will continue to speak for him,’ Atiku said.
The former Vice President extended his condolences to the actor’s wife, Joke Silva, their children and the entire Jacobs family, as well as the Nollywood family, the African creative community and millions of admirers worldwide.
‘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.
Atiku added: ‘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.’