Veteran Nollywood actress Joke Silva has been thrown into mourning as she announces the passing of her elder brother, John Olabiyi Silva, who died at the age of 73. The sad news has since drawn an overwhelming flood of condolences and prayers from fans, colleagues, and admirers across the world.
The award-winning actress, who has been a prominent figure in the Nigerian movie industry for decades and is also the wife of legendary actor Olu Jacobs, took to her Instagram page to share the heartbreaking announcement. In her emotional tribute, Joke described her late brother as “easy-going” and “lucky,” words that highlighted his calm personality and the positive impact he had on those around him.
In her words, she wrote: “With acceptance of God’s Sovereign will. We announce the call to Glory of my dear brother John Olabiyi Silva, long John Silva. Bros B… Uncle B… My easy-going, lucky brother. Rest in peace. January 22nd, 1953 – August 29th, 2025.”
The announcement quickly spread across social media, with fans and Nollywood colleagues pouring into her comment section to console her and her family during this difficult time. Many described the loss as not just a personal tragedy for Joke Silva but also a painful moment for the Nigerian entertainment industry, given how respected the Silva family is.
Messages of comfort continued to flow in, with fellow actors, actresses, and public figures expressing their heartfelt sympathy and offering prayers for the peaceful repose of John Olabiyi Silva’s soul. Supporters also extended prayers of strength to Joke Silva, her husband Olu Jacobs, and their entire family, noting that the actress has had to deal with several personal challenges in recent years, including caring for her ailing husband.
The passing of John Olabiyi Silva marks yet another solemn moment for the beloved actress, but her fans and well-wishers continue to stand firmly by her side, offering love, support, and prayers for healing as she mourns her elder brother.