Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has publicly shared his grief on Wednesday over the death of 84-year-old acting pioneer Olu Jacobs.
Writing on his official X account, Atiku honoured the late screen icon as a national treasure whose talent helped build the foundation of modern Nollywood. He extended his sympathies directly to the actor’s wife, Joke Silva, their children, and millions of fans across the globe.
Jacobs died at 84, leaving behind a massive legacy that spanned several decades of stage, television, and film performances.
A pillar of Nigerian culture
Atiku pointed out that Nigeria lost much more than just a performer with the passing of Jacobs. He highlighted how the actor brought immense dignity to every character he played on screen.
“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.
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Atiku noted that Jacobs raised the standing of Nigerian storytelling long before the nation’s film business gained global recognition. He explained that the late actor paved the way for younger performers who came after him in the entertainment world.
“Long before Nollywood became a global phenomenon, Olu Jacobs was already carrying the Nigerian name with distinction,” Atiku stated on X.
“Through decades of dedication to his craft, he helped lay the foundations upon which an entire industry would rise.”
National grief and comfort
The loss feels personal to an entire nation that grew up watching Jacobs perform throughout his long career. Atiku emphasised that although the legendary actor is gone, his artistic standards and memorable screen characters will live on forever.
“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 wrote.
In his message, Atiku offered prayers for the surviving family members during their time of loss. He directed his personal sympathies to Jacobs’ wife and partner in the acting profession, Joke Silva.
“My heart goes especially to his beloved wife and lifelong partner, Joke Silva, their children and the entire Jacobs family,” he shared online.
“I pray that the memories of the beautiful life they shared with him will bring them strength through this painful season. Olu Jacobs gave Nigeria his talent, his voice and a lifetime of excellence. Nigeria will remember him with pride, affection and profound gratitude,” Atiku wrote.
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