Joke Silva Breaks Silence, Shares Emotional Tribute to Late Husband Olu Jacobs
Joke Silva Breaks Silence, Shares Emotional Tribute to Late Husband Olu Jacobs
Veteran Nollywood actress Joke Silva has broken her silence following the death of her husband and screen legend, Olu Jacobs, sharing a poignant throwback photograph of the couple as tributes continue to pour in for the late actor.
Silva took to Instagram on Tuesday, September 30, posting a tender photograph of herself with Jacobs accompanied by just two powerful symbols — a white heart and folded hands,
The simple tribute came on the same day Nollywood stars, friends and associates gathered at Glover Memorial Hall, Lagos Island, for the Night of Tributes in honour of the late actor.
The post quickly attracted an outpouring of sympathy from fans, colleagues and entertainment personalities, who used the comment section to comfort Silva and celebrate the memory of the man fondly known as the “Lion of Lufodo.”
A Love Story That Spanned Decades
Olu Jacobs, born Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs, died on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84. His death was announced by his family, who described him as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, while appealing for privacy during the mourning period.
Jacobs and Silva were married in 1985 and became one of Nigeria’s most celebrated entertainment couples.
Their relationship went beyond marriage. Together, they built the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, contributing to the development of Nigeria’s creative industry and nurturing younger talents.
Silva had previously spoken about the 20-year age difference between them, recalling that although her father initially had reservations about their relationship, her mother supported their decision to marry.
Silva’s Devotion Through Difficult Years
In the later years of their marriage, Silva remained closely by Jacobs’ side as he battled dementia, a period that brought increased public attention to the couple’s private life.
Despite the challenges, she continued to care for and support her husband, often keeping details of his condition within the family.
Jacobs’ death came after a career spanning more than five decades across theatre, television and film. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before building an early career in British theatre and television.
He later returned to Nigeria, where his commanding voice, stagecraft and memorable screen performances helped establish him as one of the defining figures of the country’s modern entertainment industry.
Final Farewell
The Night of Tributes for Jacobs held on Wednesday, September 30, at Glover Memorial Hall, with leading figures from Nollywood gathering to celebrate his life and legacy.
His funeral service is scheduled for Friday, October 2, at This Present House, Freedom Way, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, followed by a private burial.
For Silva, however, the photograph and two quiet symbols may have said what words could not: a final public salute to the man with whom she shared more than four decades of love, family, friendship and a remarkable journey through Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
