Veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
His death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a statement shared on social media on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. The family described the celebrated actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn.
Born on July 11, 1942, Olu Jacobs built a career spanning more than five decades across theatre, television and film. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and appeared in several British television productions and international films before becoming one of the most recognisable figures in Nollywood.
Jacobs was known for his commanding performances, particularly his portrayals of traditional rulers, chiefs, fathers and other authoritative characters. He also co-founded the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts with his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, helping to nurture talent in Nigeria’s creative industry.
His contributions to the arts earned him several honours, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007 and the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
Jacobs had largely withdrawn from public life in his later years. His wife had disclosed in 2021 that he was living with Lewy body dementia, following which the family repeatedly dismissed false reports of his death.
He is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren. Funeral arrangements had not been announced at the time of filing this report.
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