‘Black Wednesday in Nollywood’ – Nigerian celebrities react to Olu Jacobs’ death

Many Nigerian celebrities, including actors, singers, influencers and comedians have reacted to the death of veteran actor, Olu Jacobs.

DAILY POST reports that Olu Jacobs, a well respected actor in the Nigerian movie industry, died at 84 on Wednesday, September 16 2026 amid his battle with dementia with Lewy bodies, DLB.

Reacting to the development, Nigerian celebrities including Funke Akindele, Mercy Johnson, RMD, Emeka Rollas, Muyiwa Ademola, Stanley Ontop, Yemi Solade, Broda Shaggi, Mr Macaroni, Mo Abudu, Susan Peters and singer Dare Justified took to social media to mourn the deceased.

Actor Stanley Ontop who tagged Jacobs’ passing as ‘black Wednesday in Nollywood’, explained that he woke up with tears in his eyes

Sharing Olu Jacobs’ photo, he wrote, “Keep resting in the bossom of thy lord legendary Old Jacobs. You made my childhood memorable. I woke up this morning with tears in my eyes. chai chai this one pain me. Black Wednesday in Nollywood.”

Veteran actor, Richard Mofe Damijo, popularly known as RMD, shared on Instagram, “Some losses leave you searching for words, because nothing you say can truly capture what has been lost.

“To many, he was an icon. A pioneer. A giant of Nigerian theatre and film. A man whose talent, discipline and extraordinary command of his craft helped shape the industry we know today. To me, he was Uncle Jay.

“He was one of the men whose presence helped make the path easier for those of us who came after. His return home, his commitment to the craft and the standard he set reminded us that there was a place for excellence, discipline and integrity in the work we had chosen to do.”

Actress Mercy Johnson posted, “Rest On Legend. Rest well, Uncle Olu. I could never forget our moments on set, truly precious memories, filled with so much laughter, joy, and, of course, plenty of corrections. Those moments will forever hold a special place in my heart.

“You were more than just veteran, you are a legend and you were someone whose presence, guidance, and impact became part of my journey. Looking back now, I realize how precious those moments were. You will be deeply missed, Uncle Olu, but your memories and the lives you touched will continue to speak for you.”

Funke Akindele wrote on her Insta story, “Rest in peace uncle!! A true legend, a kind and gracious man who was always willing to support, encourage and uplift young talents. Your remarkable legacy and contribution to our industry will never be forgotten.

“My heartfelt condolences to Aunty Joke Silva, the children, the entire Jacobs family and the Nigerian film industry. May God comfort and strengthen everyone during this difficult time. May God grant Uncle Olu eternal rest, and may He bless all of us in the creative industry with good health and long life. Amen.”

Veteran actor, Yemi Solade wrote, “Goodnight LION Of LUFODO. I Celebrate A Creative Life Of Monstrous Impacts. Uncle Olu J. Sleep O’n In The Creative Firmament.

Memories of you and the artistic power you exhibited and lived for will dwell forever!”

Similarly, the President of the Theatre Arts and Movie Practitioners Association of Nigeria, Mr Latin, wrote on his Instagram page, “A true legend, an icon, and a master of his craft. Your impact on Nigerian theatre and film will forever remain unforgettable. Rest on, father Olu Jacobs. Your legacy lives on.”

Actor Muyiwa Ademola wrote on his page, “Olu Jacobs; a name that became an institution. A voice that commanded attention. A presence that defined generations. You did not merely act, you taught us what acting could be.

“You inspired countless actors and filmmakers, and your footprints will forever remain on the sands of Nigerian and African theatre and film. From one generation of filmmakers to a true master of the craft, thank you for the legacy.

“Sleep peacefully, Uncle Olu. Your curtain has fallen, but your legacy will never fade. REST IN PEACE, THE LION OF LUFODO.”

Skit maker,Mr Macaroni, reacted under Jacobs Junior’s post, “Legend, Icon and an absolute Inspiration to us all!”

Broda Shaggi wrote “May his soul find eternal rest at the right hand of God, and may his memory live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.”

Also, Empress Njamah wrote, “The Sage finally took an eternal bow from life’s theater. The lights are out, the curtains are drawn, the stage is now empty, the golden voice we once adore will remain silent forever. May God give the family the strength to bear this irreparable loss. We fare the well great thespian. Adieu!!!”

Desmond Elliot wrote on Instagram, “Papa has gone home All we can say is THANK YOU SIR You made the whole of africa proud May God be with your family and loved ones.”

Other celebrities who posted and mourned Olu Jacob include Madam Saje, Mo Abudu, Toyosi Adesanya, Mike Ezuruonye, Emeka Rollas, Susan Peters, Evan Okoro, Daniel Etim Effiong, Abey Lanre, comedian Mr Jolof, Agatha Amata, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu.

Pastor Femi Lazarus, singer Banky W, singer Dare Justified, actor Deyemi Okanlawon, influencer Enioluwa, and Festus Keyamo, the Nigeria minister of aviation, among other notable celebrities, also paid tributes to the late actor.

‘Black Wednesday in Nollywood’ – Nigerian celebrities react to Olu Jacobs’ death