Legendary Nollywood actor Pete Edochie has paid tribute to his late colleague, Olu Jacobs, describing him as a peaceful and humorous personality who left a lasting impression on those around him.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Edochie, in an emotional video tribute to the late actor, also commiserated with Jacobs’ wife, Joke Silva, over the challenges she endured during his prolonged illness.
“Olu, my brother, you fought like a man. You fought like the soldier I have always known you to be. Rest in peace, my brother. Joke, I commiserate with you for what you had to endure over a period of six years,” he said.
Edochie described Jacobs as a humorous and peaceful colleague, recalling his distinctive personality and the impact he had on those around him. He said although Jacobs’ death was painful, his life should also be celebrated.
“While we must mourn that Olu has gone, we should also be glad and celebrate Olu’s life. Of all our senior colleagues who have gone, Olu was the only one who reached 80 and beyond.
“The Good Book allows us three scores and 10, that is 70. Olu earned 14 years on top of that,” he said.
Edochie acknowledged that the final six years of Jacobs’ life had not been what they expected.
“Unfortunately, the past six years were not what we had projected or expected in any way. Like I said a thousand times, if God says it is time, then it is time,” he said.
The veteran actor expressed hope that one of Jacobs’ children would take up acting to help preserve his memory and legacy.
“My one prayer is that one of Olu’s children takes to acting, so that whenever we look at him, we remember what Olu meant to all of us,” Edochie said.
He described Jacobs as the most senior among their colleagues, adding that the late actor treated everyone he interacted with with respect.
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Edochie also recalled words Jacobs had shared with his wife and urged Silva to hold on to them as she navigates life after his death.
“Joke, I want you to remember Olu’s words. Your problems are firmly behind you,” he said.
He ended the tribute by reflecting on the possibility of meeting Jacobs again after death.
“Joke, take care. Olu, well, if it is true that people recognise one another after they have gone, then there is a possibility that we will meet again,” Edochie said.
NAN reports that Jacobs died at the age of 84, with his death prompting tributes from colleagues, political leaders and other Nigerians who acknowledged his contributions to theatre, television and the Nigerian film industry.
Among his achievements, Jacobs received several awards, including the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
