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Nollywood veteran Patience Ozokwor has opened up about the emotional impact of losing some of her longtime colleagues, admitting that the deaths of actors she shared memorable moments with were difficult for her to accept.
The actress, popularly known as Mama G, made this known during an interview with Femi Babs TV, where she reflected on the passing of several veteran actors and the realities of growing older in the Nigerian film industry.
Ozokwor revealed that she sometimes finds herself imagining what it would feel like to lose some of the colleagues who remain close to her, particularly veteran actor Pete Edochie.
The actress also spoke about the late Olu Jacobs, admitting that she finds it difficult to think about his death and the loss of someone with whom she shared many experiences in the industry.
She explained that she has always cherished the company of people and therefore finds death particularly difficult to process when it involves those she loves and respects.
“I imagine how I would feel if Olu Jacobs dies before me. I feel so bad about Olu Jacobs situation and don’t want to think about it. I cherish people’s company so much,” she said.
Ozokwor recalled her relationship with the late Mr Ibu, describing how his death affected her because of the many moments they shared while working together.
She said she broke down emotionally because the late comedian brought a unique energy to their work and they frequently performed comedy together.
“When that man died I cried like a baby because he was good with comedy and we were always doing comedy together. I couldn’t fathom his death,” she added.
The actress also remembered the death of Sam Loco Efe, another veteran actor with whom she worked during her career.
According to Ozokwor, she was younger when Sam Loco died and found it harder to control her emotions at the time.
“When Ibu died I felt the same way but I was controlling myself because I am getting older. When Sam Loco died I was younger. I was trying to play on my age,” she said.
Ozokwor Celebrates Longevity
Despite the pain of losing several colleagues, Ozokwor has continued to celebrate the relationships and experiences she has gained throughout her decades-long career.
A few weeks ago, the actress shared a video of herself dancing to Ogene music alongside fellow veteran Nkem Owoh, popularly known as Osuofia.
She explained that their director had invited a live band to welcome them on set. Ozokwor expressed gratitude that, despite her age, she was still able to dance and enjoy herself.
Her longevity in Nollywood has also been recognised by colleagues and industry stakeholders.
Veteran actor Kanayo Kanayo previously shared photographs featuring himself, Ozokwor and Pete Edochie while highlighting what he described as important qualities behind success: wisdom, sacrifice and resilience.
Celebrated For Her Contribution
Ozokwor has undoubtedly established herself as one of the most recognisable figures in Nigerian cinema, with a career spanning several decades.
She was recently honoured with a Hall of Fame award at the Reffa Awards in Ghana. While appreciating the organisers, the actress expressed happiness at being recognised and celebrated while still alive.
In 2024, she also called for support as she prepared to mark 45 years in the Nigerian entertainment industry. Reflecting on her journey, Mama G described her career as one that began with a single step and developed through years of dedication.
The actress has also repeatedly acknowledged the sacrifices made by her family throughout her career.
In 2023, after receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award, she penned an emotional message to her children, thanking them for the sacrifices they made while she pursued acting.
Ozokwor recalled that her children often had to stay without their mother while she travelled for film productions. She expressed gratitude for their understanding, love and acceptance throughout the years.
Comedian Basketmouth has also spoken fondly about his relationship with the actress. During her birthday celebration, he recalled a conversation in which he asked Ozokwor to feature in his movie, noting that the support she gave him meant a great deal.
As Ozokwor continues to celebrate her remarkable journey, her reflections on the deaths of her colleagues show the personal side of a career that has spanned generations of Nollywood.
Watch her speak below…
“I keep imagining what it would feel like if Pete Edochie passed away before me. I feel so bad about what happened to Olu Jacobs. When Sam Loco passed, I cried like a baby because he was doing comedy with me. When Mr Ibu passed, it was the same.”💔
— carter🌚 (@carter8f) September 7, 2026
—Patience Ozokwor (Mama G) pic.twitter.com/fo2OZQXCwI
#PatienceOzokwor
#PeteEdochie
#Nollywood
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