Tears In Nollywood As Iconic Actor Olu Jacobs D!es At 84

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

According to Bush Radio Academy, the actor’s death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a statement shared on Instagram on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.

In the family’s tribute, Olu Jacobs was described as “The Lion of Lufodo,” with his family expressing gratitude for his life and legacy while appealing to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy during the period of mourning.

The statement read in part, “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.”

The family also asked the public and media practitioners to allow them privacy as they mourn the veteran actor.

Born on July 11, 1942, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Olu Jacobs spent part of his childhood in Kano, where his interest in drama and acting developed.

He later travelled to the United Kingdom to pursue professional training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London. Following his training, he worked with several theatre companies in Britain and featured in stage productions, television programmes and international films.

His television credits in the United Kingdom included appearances in productions such as The Goodies, Till Death Us Do Part, The Professionals, The Tomorrow People and The Venturers.

After returning to Nigeria, Jacobs established himself as one of the country’s prominent actors, appearing in television productions, stage plays and more than 100 films.

He became particularly recognised for portraying authoritative characters, including kings, traditional rulers and other influential figures, earning widespread recognition for his commanding performances.

Beyond acting, Jacobs contributed to the development of Nigeria’s theatre and film industry and was honoured with the national award of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).

Olu Jacobs is survived by his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, and his two surviving sons, Olusoji and Olugbenga Jacobs.

His death marks the loss of one of Nigeria’s most recognisable veteran actors, whose career spanned theatre, television and film across several decades.