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 by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a post on Instagram on Wednesday.
In the family’s statement, the late actor was described as “The Lion of Lufodo,” while bloggers and social media influencers were urged to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.
“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 Baiyewun Jacobs (MFR).
“We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time.”
Olu Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most prominent veteran actors, with a career spanning theatre, television and film.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in England and began his acting career in Britain, where he worked with repertory theatres and appeared in British television productions and international films.
After returning to Nigeria, Jacobs established himself as a major figure in the country’s film industry and became widely recognised as one of the pioneering veterans of Nollywood.
Throughout his career, he received several major honours. He won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, received the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, and was honoured with the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
In 2011, Jacobs was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
He was married to fellow veteran actress Joke Silva, with whom he had children.
His death marks the passing of one of Nigeria’s most recognised actors, whose career spanned several decades across stage, television and film.
