Lion of Lufodo: Nollywood’s finest bid farewell to Olu Jacobs amid tears, tributes

By Benjamin Njoku, Ammah sarah, Ojekunle Israel &Ihemeje Chidera

The remains of veteran Nollywood actor, Olu Jacobs, were laid to rest in Lagos yesterday, closing the final chapter of a career that spanned more than five decades. Jacobs, fondly called “The Lion of Lufodo”, died on September 16 at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness.

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His funeral service at This Present House, Lekki drew family, friends, and Nollywood stars, many dressed in shades of green to honour him. His wife, Joke Silva, and children walked solemnly behind the pallbearers in matching blue outfits.

The mood was emotional but celebratory. Dare Art Alade’s performance of “Pray For Me” stirred tears and sing-alongs, while Jacobs’ son, Olugbenga, moved mourners with a heartfelt biography of his father.

Tributes poured in from colleagues and dignitaries. Actress Sola Sobowale recalled how Jacobs once told a room of actors:

“Have you seen Sola Sobowale? She is a great actor.”

She said that moment gave her the confidence to pursue her career.

Richard Mofe-Damijo described Jacobs as a mentor who taught humility through his own stage experiences. Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, hailed him as “an icon of theatre and arts who reshaped a generation of storytelling.”

Jacobs’ burial followed a Night of Tributes at Glover Memorial Hall, where Nollywood stars celebrated his humour, authenticity, and enduring impact.

“We do not unveil a perfect Nigeria. We unveil possibility,” Musawa said, echoing the sentiment that Jacobs’ legacy will continue to inspire generations.

Roll call

Among dignitaries present were the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Obafemi Hamzat; First Lady of Lagos State, Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; and former Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun.

Nollywood stars who showed up to pay their last respects included Richard Mofe-Damijo, Rita Dominic, Kate Henshaw, Sola Sobowale, Hilda Dokubo, Ruth Kadiri, Segun Arinze, Ernest Obi, Adebayo Salami (Oga Bello), Keppy Ekpenyong-Bassey and Stan Nze, among others.

The actor’s wife, Joke Silva, his children Olusoji and Olugbenga Jacobs, including his grandchild and daughter-in-law, were all dressed in matching blue outfits as they walked solemnly behind the pallbearers, accompanying Jacobs on his final journey inside the church.