By Ghazali Ibrahim
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 on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a statement shared on Instagram.
The family described Jacobs as “The Lion of Lufodo” and expressed gratitude for his life, while appealing to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn.
Jacobs was born on July 11, 1942, and built a career spanning theatre, television and film. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before appearing in British television productions and international films.
He later became one of the most recognisable faces of Nollywood, featuring in numerous Nigerian films and earning several honours, including the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
Jacobs was married to fellow veteran actress Joke Silva, with whom he co-founded the Lufodo Group and contributed to the development of Nigeria’s theatre and film industry.
His death comes two months after Silva celebrated his 84th birthday on July 11, describing him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”
The actor had previously been the subject of false death reports, which his family and colleagues dismissed in 2024. His death has now been formally announced by his family.
