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 an Instagram post on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
He said the family was grateful for the life of the veteran actor and appealed to members of the public to respect their privacy.
“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)
11/07/1942-16/09/2026
We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our families privacy at this time.”
Olu Jacobs was born on July 11, 1942, and built a distinguished career spanning theatre, television and film in Nigeria and abroad.
He was widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most respected veteran actors, earning recognition for his commanding screen presence and performances in numerous Nigerian and international productions.
Beyond acting, Jacobs also played a significant role in Nigeria’s film industry as a film executive and was involved in the growth and development of contemporary Nigerian cinema.
He was married to fellow veteran actress Joke Silva, with whom he had children.
His career and contribution to the entertainment industry earned him widespread recognition, including the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
His death marks the loss of one of the prominent figures of Nigeria’s acting and theatre tradition.
