Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
Jacobs, who received the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011, celebrated his 84th birthday on 11 July.
His death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a statement shared on Instagram on Wednesday.
The family described the acclaimed actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect its privacy during the period of mourning.
“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 said.
“We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time.”
Jacobs was married to fellow veteran actress Joke Silva, with whom he had children.
He was widely recognised for his contributions to theatre, television and film, and was regarded as one of the leading figures in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
The actor trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in England before beginning his professional career in Britain. He worked with repertory theatres and appeared in British television productions as well as international films.
After returning to Nigeria, Jacobs established himself as a prominent figure in the country’s film industry and became one of the most respected actors associated with Nollywood.
His performances earned him several major honours. In 2007, he won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role.
He also received the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
Jacobs’ death marks the loss of one of Nigeria’s most recognised actors, whose career spanned theatre, television and film across several decades.
