Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
The actor’s death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Instagram on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
In a statement released by the family, Jacobs was described as “The Lion of Lufodo.” The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn his passing.
“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.”
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The family statement gave his lifespan as July 11, 1942 – September 16, 2026.
A career that crossed borders
Born on July 11, 1942, Olu Jacobs built a career that stretched across theatre, television and film, both in Nigeria and abroad.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) in London, after which he worked with theatre companies in Britain and appeared in several British television productions and international films. His international credits included productions such as The Goodies, Till Death Us Do Part, The Professionals, The Tomorrow People, The Dogs of War and Pirates.
He later returned to Nigeria and became one of the recognisable faces of the country’s growing film industry. His body of work spans several decades and includes more than 100 Nigerian films, while Lufodo Group, which he co-founded with his wife, actress Joke Silva, describes his overall career as spanning about five decades.
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Beyond acting, Jacobs was involved in film production, theatre and training, with the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts contributing to the development of practitioners in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
His contributions were also recognised with several honours, including the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) national honour in 2011 and lifetime achievement recognitions from major African film organisations.
A career remembered beyond the screen
Olu Jacobs’ passing comes after decades in which he remained a significant figure in Nigerian theatre and cinema. His career connected the country’s emerging film industry with a long background in British theatre and television.
His death also comes after years in which false reports of his passing repeatedly circulated online. In July 2026, his wife, Joke Silva, publicly celebrated him as he marked his 84th birthday.
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This time, however, the announcement has come from the Jacobs family itself, with major Nigerian news organisations reporting the development.
The family has asked the public, particularly bloggers and social media influencers, to respect their privacy during this period of mourning.
By :Efunbajo Victoria
Reporter