Veteran actress Patience Ozokwor has expressed sadness at missing the funeral of veteran actor Olu Jacobs.

Jacobs was laid to rest on Friday, October 2, with colleagues and other dignitaries in attendance to pay their last respects.

In a message shared on her Instagram page, Ozokwor, who is currently in Ghana, said contractual obligations prevented her from attending the burial.

“It hurts my heart that I am not physically present in Nigeria today to pay my last respects to the great legend, Olu Jacobs. I would give anything to be there right now, but contractual obligations will not allow me to,” she wrote.

She added, “My heart and thoughts are with you all. I pray everything goes peacefully and that his remarkable legacy lives on. Though I may not be there in person, please know that I am with you all in spirit. Rest well, great legend. Your legacy will forever remain. Go well, great legend. Ga nke Oma. Until we meet to part no more.”

Meanwhile, tributes have continued to pour in for the late icon.

Actor Chiwetalu Agu described Jacobs as more than an actor, calling him a giant of the Nigerian film industry.

NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi said he was saddened by the death, describing Jacobs as an embodiment of Nigerian excellence whose life demonstrated “the power of talent, discipline, professionalism, and dedication to one’s craft.”

Actress Rita Dominic also paid tribute, describing Jacobs as an icon and a gift to the film industry, adding that she was privileged to work with him and learn from him.

Veteran actor Pete Edochie described Jacobs as his brother, saying he “fought like a man and a soldier,” and recalled him as humorous and peaceful.