Veteran actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84, with his family describing him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”
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 family through his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, and their son, Olusoji Jacobs.
The family, in a statement shared on social media, announced the passing of the celebrated actor with a tribute to his life and legacy.
The statement described him as “The Lion of Lufodo” and identified him as Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs (MFR), giving his dates as July 11, 1942 – September 16, 2026.
The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn the veteran actor.
Olu Jacobs had a career spanning theatre, television and film, both in Nigeria and abroad. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London and began his professional acting career in Britain, where he appeared in several theatre productions and British television programmes.
His early television credits included appearances in productions such as The Goodies, Till Death Us Do Part, Barlow at Large, The Venturers, Angels, The Tomorrow People and The Professionals. He also featured in international films, including The Dogs of War, Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend and Pirates.
After returning to Nigeria, Jacobs became one of the recognised faces of the country’s emerging film and television industry. He starred in numerous Nigerian productions and became particularly known for his commanding screen presence and versatility across different roles.
His contribution to the Nigerian film industry earned him several major honours. In 2007, he won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. He later received the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2013 and the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
He was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
Beyond acting, Jacobs was involved in theatre and entertainment development through the Lufodo Group, which he established with his wife, Joke Silva. The organisation has been involved in film production, distribution, theatre and professional training through the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.
His marriage to Joke Silva was one of the most recognised partnerships in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. The two veteran actors built both a family and a professional partnership that extended into theatre, film production and training.
Olu Jacobs had been the subject of several false death reports in previous years, which were repeatedly dismissed by his family. The latest announcement, however, was made by his family and confirmed his passing.
His death marks the passing of a major figure whose career crossed generations, from British theatre and television to Nigeria’s modern film industry.
Olu Jacobs celebrated his 84th birthday on July 11, 2026, just over two months before his death.
He is survived by his wife, Joke Silva, their children and grandchildren.
The Nigerian entertainment industry and admirers of the veteran actor are expected to continue paying tribute to his life and decades of contribution to theatre, television and film.
