Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed sadness over the death of veteran actor Olu Jacobs, who passed away at the age of 84.
Jacobs’ son, Olusoji, shared news of his death in an Instagram post on Wednesday, calling the late actor “The Lion of Lufodo.”
In a statement posted on his X handle on Wednesday responding to the news, Atiku called Jacobs “an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit.”
Atiku said, “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.”
Atiku likewise offered his condolences to Jacobs’ wife, actress Joke Silva, as well as their children and the broader entertainment community.
“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.
He 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.”
He also worked as a film executive, and together with his wife, Joke Silva, he was linked to the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs trained at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and featured in a number of British television productions and international films before he became a leading figure in Nigeria’s film industry.
In 2013, he was honored with the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, and in 2016, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Africa Movie Academy Awards.
In 2011, he was also awarded the national honor of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic.
