Nollywood veteran actress Patience Ozokwor has expressed heartbreak over her absence from the funeral of her late colleague, Olu Jacobs, who was laid to rest on Friday amid tributes from colleagues and other prominent Nigerians.
Ozokwor, who is currently in Ghana, said contractual obligations prevented her from returning to Nigeria for the funeral service, adding that she would have given anything to be physically present to pay her final respects.
In a message shared on her Instagram page on Friday, the actress said her thoughts remained with Jacobs’ family, friends and colleagues as they bid farewell to the legendary actor.
She wrote, “It hurts my heart that I am not physically present in Nigeria today to pay my last respects to the great legend, Olu Jacobs.”
Ozokwor added, “I would give anything to be there right now, but contractual obligations will not allow me to. My heart and thoughts are with you all.”
The veteran actress prayed for a peaceful funeral and a lasting legacy for Jacobs, whom she described as a great legend.
She said, “Though I may not be there in person, please know that I am with you all in spirit.”
Ozokwor concluded, “Rest well, great legend. Your legacy will forever remain. Go well, great legend. Ga nke Oma. Until we meet to part no more.”
Jacobs, regarded as one of Nigeria’s most celebrated actors, was laid to rest on Friday, with several personalities from the entertainment industry and beyond attending the funeral to honour his life and career.
Reacting to his death, actor Chiwetalu Agu described Jacobs as more than an actor, calling him a giant of the Nigerian film industry.
Agu said words failed him as he struggled to come to terms with the death of the veteran actor.
Also mourning Jacobs, former Anambra State governor and presidential aspirant Peter Obi described the late actor as an embodiment of the excellence of the Nigerian spirit.
Obi said Jacobs made significant contributions to Nigeria’s film and creative industry, adding that his life demonstrated “the power of talent, discipline, professionalism, and dedication to one’s craft.”
Actress Rita Dominic also described Jacobs as an icon and legend, saying he was a gift to the Nigerian film industry.
Dominic expressed gratitude for having worked alongside the late actor, saying she was privileged to learn from him and experience his greatness first-hand.
Veteran actor Pete Edochie, who also paid tribute to Jacobs, described him as his brother.
Edochie said Jacobs “fought like a man and a soldier,” while remembering him as a humorous and peaceful colleague.
The tributes underscored the deep impact Jacobs had on Nigeria’s entertainment industry, with colleagues remembering him for his professionalism, talent, discipline and contribution to the growth of Nollywood.
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