Veteran actress Patience Ozokwor has joined colleagues and admirers in mourning Nollywood icon Olu Jacobs after missing his funeral service in Lagos.

Jacobs was laid to rest on Friday, October 2, 2026, following a funeral service at This Present House, Freedom Way, Lekki Phase I, Lagos. Family members, friends, colleagues and several dignitaries gathered to honour the actor, who died on September 16 at the age of 84.

Ozokwor, who was in Ghana for a film project, said she was heartbroken that her professional commitments prevented her from returning to Nigeria for the funeral.

In a message shared on Instagram, the actress said she would have wanted to be physically present to pay her final respects to Jacobs but was unable to leave the ongoing production.

She extended her thoughts and prayers to Jacobs’ family, friends and colleagues, while expressing hope that the actor’s legacy would continue to live on.

Ozokwor and Jacobs were among the veteran actors whose careers helped shape Nigeria’s film and television industry over several decades. Her tribute reflects the widespread grief among members of the Nigerian entertainment community following Jacobs’ death.

Other prominent Nollywood figures have also paid tribute to the late actor.

Veteran actor Chiwetalu Agu described Jacobs as much more than an actor, portraying him as a major figure whose contribution to the Nigerian film industry extended beyond individual performances.

Pete Edochie also mourned Jacobs, referring to him as a brother and remembering him as a humorous and peaceful colleague. He also reflected on the strength Jacobs displayed throughout his career.

Actress Rita Dominic described Jacobs as an icon and legend, recalling the opportunity to work with him and learn from his experience in the industry.

Former Anambra State governor and NDC presidential aspirant Peter Obi also expressed sadness over Jacobs’ death, describing the actor as an example of excellence and highlighting his professionalism, discipline and dedication to his craft.

The tributes followed a Night of Tributes held at Glover Memorial Hall in Lagos on September 30, where colleagues, friends and admirers gathered to celebrate Jacobs’ life and career before the funeral.

At Friday’s funeral, Jacobs’ widow, actress Joke Silva, and their sons, Olusoji and Olugbenga Jacobs, were among those present. Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, First Lady Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu and former Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun were also among the dignitaries who attended.

Entertainment entrepreneur and singer Dare Art Alade also paid tribute during the service, while Jacobs’ son Olugbenga presented a biography of his late father.

Jacobs built a career spanning more than five decades across theatre, television and film and became one of the most recognisable figures in Nigerian entertainment. He and Joke Silva also co-founded the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, contributing to the development of the country's creative industry.

Although Ozokwor could not be present in Lagos, her message added to the tributes from colleagues who have continued to reflect on Jacobs’ contribution to Nigerian entertainment and the relationships he built throughout his career.

Reporting by TalkNaijaMedia