By Gabriel Ameh
Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
The death of the celebrated actor was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in an Instagram post on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
In the family statement, Olusoji described Jacobs as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, while referring to him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”
The statement 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.”
The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn the veteran actor.
“We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time,” the statement added.
Olu Jacobs, who was born on July 11, 1942, built a career spanning theatre, television and film in Nigeria and internationally. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and later became one of the most recognisable figures in Nigeria’s film industry.
His career included work in British television and international films before he became a prominent figure in Nollywood, where he appeared in hundreds of productions and helped shape the Nigerian screen industry.
Jacobs was also a co-founder of the Lufodo Group and received several honours during his long career, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role and national recognition as a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
His death brings to an end a career that spanned more than five decades and established him as one of the enduring figures of Nigerian theatre, television and film.
The Nigerian entertainment industry is expected to pay tribute to the veteran actor as colleagues, filmmakers and fans mourn his passing.
