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 Instagram on Wednesday by his son, Olusoji Jacobs.
In a statement, the family remembered him as “The Lion of Lufodo” and asked bloggers and social media influencers to give them 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.”
Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s veteran actors, known for his work in theatre, television and film.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in England and started his acting career in Britain. He worked with repertoire theatres and appeared in British television productions and international films.
After returning to Nigeria, he became a major figure in the film industry and one of Nollywood’s veteran actors.
He won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007. He also received the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
In 2011, he was honoured as a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic.
Jacobs was married to fellow veteran actress, Joke Silva.
