Veteran Nollywood actress Patience Ozokwo has expressed her sadness over missing the funeral of legendary actor Olu Jacobs, who was laid to rest in Lagos on Friday, October 2, 2026.

Ozokwo, who was in Ghana for work at the time, said contractual obligations prevented her from returning to Nigeria for the funeral.

The actress shared her message of mourning on Instagram on Friday as family members, friends, colleagues and other prominent figures gathered in Lagos to pay their final respects to Jacobs.

Ozokwo: “It Hurts My Heart”

In her tribute, Ozokwo said she was deeply pained by her inability to be physically present at the funeral.

She explained that she would have loved to attend the ceremony but was unable to leave Ghana because of an existing professional commitment.

The actress also extended her thoughts and prayers to Jacobs’ family, friends and colleagues who gathered to honour the late actor.

Ozokwo prayed for a peaceful funeral and expressed hope that Jacobs’ contribution to Nigerian entertainment would continue to be remembered.

She ended the emotional tribute with a personal farewell to her late colleague, including the Igbo expression “Ga nke ọma,” meaning “go well.”

Olu Jacobs’ Final Farewell

Jacobs was buried on Friday after a funeral service at This Present House on Freedom Way, Lekki Phase I, Lagos.

The ceremony attracted members of Jacobs’ family, Nollywood stars, government officials and other dignitaries. Among those reported to have attended were Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, Lagos First Lady Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu and former Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun.

The funeral followed a Night of Tributes held on September 30 at Glover Memorial Hall in Lagos, where colleagues and admirers celebrated the actor’s career and legacy.

Remembering a Nollywood Icon

Olu Jacobs died on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84. His death was announced by his wife, actress Joke Silva, and their son, Olusoji Jacobs.

Jacobs built a career spanning more than five decades across theatre, television and film and was widely recognised for his contributions to Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

While Ozokwo could not join the gathering in person, her message added to the tributes from colleagues who have continued to honour Jacobs following his death.