I Am Saddened” — Atiku Mourns The De@th Of Veteran Actor Olu Jacobs

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate for the 2027 election, Atiku Abubakar, has expressed deep sadness over the death of veteran Nollywood actor, Olu Jacobs, who died at the age of 84.

According to reports, Atiku described Jacobs as more than a great actor, calling him an institution, a cultural icon and an important ambassador of Nigeria’s creative industry.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the former vice president said Jacobs’ death represented a significant loss to Nigeria, while noting that the late actor’s achievements and influence would continue to inspire generations.

“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 stated.

He recalled Jacobs’ long-standing contribution to the Nigerian entertainment industry, noting that the actor was already making an impact before Nollywood gained international recognition.

Atiku said Jacobs’ distinctive voice, dignity and acting talent made him a familiar figure to generations of Nigerians and helped establish standards for younger actors who followed.

“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 said.

The former vice president added that Jacobs’ legacy would live on through the characters he portrayed, the standards he established and the generations of actors he inspired.

Atiku extended his condolences to Jacobs’ wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, their children and the entire Jacobs family, praying that the memories of their life with the late actor would give them strength during the period of mourning.

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

“Olu Jacobs gave Nigeria his talent, his voice and a lifetime of excellence. Nigeria will remember him with pride, affection and profound gratitude,” Atiku said.

He concluded by praying for the peaceful repose of the late actor’s soul and comfort for his family.