Nollywood actor Emeka Ike has paid an emotional tribute to the late veteran actor Olu Jacobs, describing him as a mentor, teacher, master and an “unbiological father” who had a lasting influence on his career.
Ike, reflecting on his relationship with the legendary actor, said he was privileged to have learned from Jacobs both directly and indirectly throughout his acting journey.
According to him, Olu Jacobs was more than an accomplished actor, as his voice, presence, discipline, elegance and ability to interpret characters made him one of the most respected figures in African cinema.
Ike said Jacobs taught him that acting goes beyond appearing before a camera and reciting lines, stressing that the profession requires discipline, patience, emotion, timing, observation and a deep understanding of characters.
He also recalled how the late actor once corrected his pronunciation and took him through intensive pronunciation exercises.
“He cautioned me that I did not pronounce the last letters of my words correctly and took me on a pronunciation grilling. I didn’t take that for granted, worked on it, and got better,” Ike recalled.
The actor said his own decades-long experience in the industry had further reinforced the lessons he received from mentors such as Jacobs, particularly the importance of respecting a story and giving every character a believable life.
Ike noted that some people leave lasting impressions on the lives of others, saying Jacobs was one of those remarkable people in his life.
He revealed that the veteran actor had played father figures to him in several movies and also featured in his film, 7–12.
“I remember him with enormous respect and gratitude. I remember him with the wisdom that came with his experience. I remember the dignity with which he carried himself. I remember a man who demonstrated that greatness does not need noise,” he said.
According to Ike, Jacobs’ contributions to the Nigerian film and television industry will continue to live on through the memories of actors, filmmakers and audiences who were inspired by his work.
Addressing Jacobs personally, Ike described him not merely as a legendary actor but as a mentor who helped him understand and appreciate the depth of the acting profession.
He said Jacobs’ legacy would remain a reminder that when an actor truly understands the craft, their work can continue to influence people long after their physical presence is gone.
“Today, I honour you, my mentor.
“I honour the years you dedicated to the arts and craft. I honour the characters you brought to life. I honour the lessons you left behind. I honour the generation you inspired. And I honour the legacy that will continue to speak long after you have left this world.”
Ike said although the cameras had stopped rolling for Jacobs, his performances would remain alive in the memories of those who watched and learned from him.
He added that Jacobs’ physical presence might be gone, but his influence would continue to shape the industry.
“As I continue my own journey in this profession, I will carry with me the lessons and inspiration that came from knowing you,” Ike said.
The actor thanked Jacobs for being a light to the Nigerian film industry and for serving as an example to a generation of actors.
He also described him as his “unbiological father,” stressing the personal impact the veteran actor had on his life and career.
“From one actor to a legend, from a student to his teacher, from an apprentice to his master, I say: Rest in peace, my great mentor,” Ike wrote.
He concluded by saying that Jacobs’ legacy would continue to inspire generations, while his body of work would continue to speak for him.
“Sleep well, Sir Olu Jacobs. You lived a remarkable life. You served the craft. You inspired generations. Your footprints are on the sands of time.
“Rest in peace, mentor. You will never be forgotten.”
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