Veteran Nollywood 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 son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a statement shared on Instagram.

The family described the celebrated actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and expressed gratitude to God for his life, while appealing to the public to respect the family’s 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,” Olusoji wrote.

Jacobs was born on July 11, 1942, and built a career spanning more than five decades across theatre, television and film in Nigeria and abroad.

He trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London before beginning his professional acting career in Britain, where he featured in several television productions and international films.

Among his early screen appearances were British television productions including The Goodies and The Professionals, before he returned to Nigeria and became one of the prominent figures in the development of the Nigerian film industry.

In Nollywood, Jacobs became widely recognised for his commanding screen presence and memorable portrayals of traditional rulers, fathers, political figures and other authoritative characters. His career also extended beyond Nigerian productions, establishing him as one of the country’s most internationally recognised actors.

He received several honours during his career, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007. He was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.

Jacobs was married to fellow veteran actress Joke Silva, with whom he co-founded the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts. Their work extended beyond acting into film production, distribution and the training of emerging talents in the Nigerian creative industry.

His death mark the end of a remarkable chapter in the history of Nigerian theatre, television and film, coming after a career that helped connect Nigeria’s established theatre tradition with the growth of modern Nollywood.

The family has appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect its privacy as relatives and friends mourn the veteran actor.

Olu Jacobs is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.