Veteran Nigerian 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, on Instagram on Wednesday.
In the family’s statement, Jacobs was described as “The Lion of Lufodo” as his family announced his passing with gratitude for his life.
“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 statement read.
The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect its privacy during the mourning period.
“We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our families privacy at this time,” it added.
Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most recognised actors, with a career spanning theatre, television and film for more than five decades.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in England before working with repertoire theatres and appearing in British television productions and international films.
After returning to Nigeria, he became a prominent figure in the country’s film industry and featured in numerous theatre, television and Nollywood productions.
Jacobs won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007. He also received the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
In 2011, he was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic.
Jacobs was married to fellow veteran actress Joke Silva.
He was born on July 11, 1942, and died on September 16, 2026, aged 84.