Atiku, Keyamo, Celebrities Mourn Veteran Actor Olu Jacobs
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo and several Nigerian entertainers have paid tribute to veteran actor Olu Jacobs, who died at the age of 84. Jacobs’ death was announced on Wednesday by his son, Olusoji, in an Instagram post, where he described his father as “The Lion of Lufodo.” Atiku, in a statement posted on his X handle, described Jacobs as “an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit.” He said Nigeria had lost more than a great actor, noting that Jacobs’ distinctive voice, professionalism and decades-long contribution to theatre, television and film made him a familiar figure to generations of Nigerians. Atiku also extended his condolences to Jacobs’ wife, actress Joke Silva, their children and the wider entertainment community, saying the late actor had given the country “a lifetime of excellence.” Keyamo also mourned the veteran actor, describing him as a consummate actor, quintessential professional, legend of the stage and screen, role model and gentleman. He prayed for Jacobs’ soul to rest in peace.
Tributes also poured in from several actors, comedians and content creators across social media. Broda Shaggi prayed for Jacobs’ soul to find eternal rest and for his memory to live on, while William Uchemba described his life as one well spent and hailed him as a legend. Isbae U also paid tribute to the late actor, while Mr Macaroni described him as a legend, icon and inspiration to many. Actress Ini Edo also expressed her grief, saying Jacobs would remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most prominent veteran actors, with a career spanning theatre, television and film, and was also involved in film production alongside his wife through the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts. Born on July 11, 1942, he trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and appeared in British television productions and international films before becoming a major figure in Nigeria’s film industry. His honours included the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, the Africa Movie Academy Awards’ Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016 and the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic, conferred on him in 2011.
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