Olu Jacobs: Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu are crying

President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the passing away of veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, at the age of 84.

Tinubu described the late actor as one of Nigeria’s most illustrious actors and a towering figure whose remarkable career spanned theatre, television and cinema globally.

This is contained in a statement by Presidential Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, released in Abuja on Wednesday.

The President recognized Jacobs’ contribution to the development and professionalization of the Nigerian entertainment industry.

“He was a giant of the Nigerian creative industry. His passing is a great loss to Nigeria, the African film industry and the global community of performing arts lovers.

“His extraordinary body of work will continue to speak to generations yet unborn,” Tinubu said.

Tinubu also praised Jacobs’ ability to bring depth, dignity and authenticity to the characters he played, earning him admiration in Nigeria and beyond.

After training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London, Jacobs built a career in British television and international film before returning to Nigeria.

He subsequently became a major force in the Nigerian film industry, winning major recognition and awards for his pioneering roles.

The late actor was also awarded the national honor of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).

Tinubu expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Jacobs family, especially his wife, veteran actress Chief Joke Silva, their children, relatives and colleagues.

He also expressed his condolences to the entire Nigerian creative community on the loss of the celebrated actor.

The President prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased and for the comfort of his family and loved ones.

Furthermore, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State described the death as a great loss to Nigeria’s creative industry.
Sanwo-Olu, in a condolence message by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, on Wednesday said Jacobs’ contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry will remain evergreen.
The governor said the talent and creativity of the late actor had left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s theatre, television and film industry.
”Without any doubt, Olu Jacobs was one of the respected fathers of Nollywood.
”He was a legendary actor and director who starred in several British and Nigerian television series and films.
“He has shaped the Nigerian theatre, television and film industry for over five decades through his extraordinary talent and artistry,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu also said that Jacobs used his art not only to entertain, but also to inspire and positively influence society.
He said the actor’s extraordinary career and lasting impact have cemented his place in the history of Nigeria’s creative industry.
”The vibrant spirit he embodied and the joy he shared through his art will always remain in our hearts.
“Olu Jacobs will be greatly missed by his family, friends, fans, collaborators and countless admirers of his talent and contributions to Nigerian entertainment,” he said.
The governor expressed his condolences to Jacobs’ widow, Mrs. Joke Silva, his family, friends and colleagues in the entertainment industry.
He prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased and asked God to grant the family and creative community the strength to bear the loss.
He also urged the creative community to take comfort in the extraordinary legacy the actor left during his decades of service to the arts and entertainment industry.