Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) 2027 presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has mourned the death of veteran Nollywood actor Olu Jacobs, describing the late actor as an institution and cultural icon.

Atiku expressed his sadness in a statement on Wednesday, saying Olu Jacobs’ death represents a significant loss to Nigeria and the country’s creative industry.

He said the actor’s extraordinary life, professional standards and contribution to Nigerian entertainment would continue to inspire generations.

Atiku Reacts To Olu Jacobs’ Death

The death of Olu Jacobs, who was 84, was announced by his son on Wednesday, according to an earlier report by Naija News.

Reacting to the development, Atiku said Nigeria had lost far more than a celebrated actor, describing Jacobs as a cultural figure whose influence extended across generations.

He wrote:

“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.”

A Tribute To A Nollywood Institution

Atiku also reflected on Olu Jacobs’ contribution to Nigerian entertainment before Nollywood became widely recognised internationally.

According to him, Jacobs spent decades dedicated to his craft and helped establish foundations on which the Nigerian film industry would grow.

He added:

“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 said the actor’s death would be felt personally by Nigerians who had watched and admired his work over the years.

He continued:

“His passing therefore feels deeply personal to a nation that watched him, admired him and grew up with 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.”

Condolences To Joke Silva And The Jacobs Family

Atiku extended his condolences to Olu Jacobs’ wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, their children and the entire Jacobs family.

He prayed that the memories of their life with the late actor would give them strength during the period of mourning.

Atiku wrote:

“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.

“I also extend my condolences to the Nollywood family, the wider African creative community and millions of admirers around the world who mourn a truly remarkable man.”

Remembering Olu Jacobs’ Contribution

In his concluding remarks, Atiku highlighted the qualities he believed Nigerians would remember about Olu Jacobs, pointing to his talent, voice and contribution to the creative sector.

He said:

“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,” Atiku concluded.

A Legacy Atiku Says Will Endure

Atiku’s tribute focused on Olu Jacobs’ decades-long contribution to Nigerian entertainment and the influence his work had on audiences and younger generations of actors.

His remarks also paid tribute to the late actor’s family, the Nollywood community and admirers mourning his death.

Olu Jacobs’ death has brought renewed attention to the career and legacy of one of the figures whose work became closely associated with Nigerian screen entertainment.

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