Atiku Mourns Loss Of Olu Jacobs, Says Veteran Actor Was An Institution

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has mourned the death of veteran Nollywood actor Olu Jacobs, describing him as an institution and a cultural icon who helped lay the foundations of Nigeria’s film industry.

Jacobs died on Wednesday at the age of 84, with his death announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs.

In a condolence message, Atiku said he was “profoundly saddened” by the actor’s passing, noting that Nigeria had lost more than a great actor.

He described Jacobs as “one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit”, recalling his commanding presence on screen and the distinctive voice that made him familiar to generations of Nigerians.

Atiku said Jacobs had contributed to the development of Nollywood long before the industry became a global phenomenon.

According to him, the veteran actor helped lay the foundations on which the Nigerian film industry was built, while inspiring younger actors through his decades of dedication to the craft.

“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 Jacobs’ wife, actress Joke Silva, their children and the wider Jacobs family.

He also commiserated with the Nollywood community, the African creative industry and millions of admirers of the late actor around the world.

Atiku said Jacobs had given Nigeria his talent and voice, describing his contribution to the country’s creative industry as a lifetime of excellence.

He prayed for the repose of Jacobs’ soul and strength for his family in their period of mourning.