Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
His wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, and their son announced his death on social media on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, describing the celebrated actor as “The Lion of Lufodo.”
The family said Jacobs died after a life they described as “well lived and fought,” while appealing to the public to respect their privacy as they mourn.
The announcement read, “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.
“Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs (MFR). 11/07/1942 – 16/09/2026.”
The family also called on bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy during the mourning period.
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs built a career spanning theatre, television and film, becoming one of the most recognisable figures in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and began his professional career in Britain, appearing in several television productions and international films before establishing himself as a major figure in Nigerian cinema.
Over the course of his career, Jacobs appeared in more than 100 films and became known for his commanding performances across a wide range of roles. His contribution to the film industry earned him several honours, including the African Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role and a
In 2011, he was honoured by the Nigerian government with the national award of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) for his contribution to the country’s film industry.
Jacobs was also involved in developing Nigeria’s creative industry beyond acting. Together with Joke Silva, he founded the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, which have been involved in film production, distribution and the training of performing artists.
In the later years of his life, Jacobs largely withdrew from public appearances amid health challenges. His wife, Joke Silva, disclosed in 2021 that he had been battling dementia with Lewy bodies, a condition that affected his health and contributed to his reduced public presence.
His health also became the subject of repeated false reports of his death. In 2024, another death rumour circulated online, prompting his family to reassure the public that he was still alive at the time.
Jacobs celebrated his 84th birthday on July 11, 2026, just over two months before his death.
His death marks the end of a career spanning several decades and leaves behind a significant legacy in Nigerian theatre, television and film.
