Veteran Actor Olu Jacobs Dies At 84, Family Asks For Privacy

Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has passed away at the age of 84.

The death of the legendary actor was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in an Instagram post on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.

In the post, his son wrote, It is with gratitude to God for a life well lived and fought, that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father, grandfather and uncle. The Lion of Lufodo.

He also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family’s privacy at this difficult time.

Olu Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most respected and prominent veteran actors with a career that spanned several decades in theatre, television and film.

He was trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, RADA, in London, United Kingdom. He started his acting career on British television and appeared in several international productions before returning to Nigeria where he became a major force in Nollywood.

The late actor featured in numerous Nigerian movies and was known for his commanding presence and powerful delivery on screen. He received several honours in his lifetime, including the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards, AMVCA, and the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa International Film Festival, AFRIFF.

Olu Jacobs was also a film executive and together with his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, ran the Lufodo Group and contributed immensely to the growth of performing arts and the film industry in Nigeria.

He is survived by his wife, Joke Silva, children and grandchildren.

The news of his death has thrown the Nigerian entertainment industry into mourning, with many fans and colleagues expected to pay tribute to the Lion of Lufodo.