Story: Entertainment Desk
Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
His son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced his death in an Instagram post on Wednesday.
“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,” he wrote.
He added: “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.
Trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London, Jacobs began his career in British television and later featured in several international productions before returning to Nigeria, where he became a major figure in the country’s film industry.
He went on to star in numerous Nigerian films and became widely recognised for his commanding performances, earning several industry honours, including the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa International Film Festival.
Jacobs was also a film executive and, alongside his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, was involved in the Lufodo Group and the development of performing arts in Nigeria.
6 thoughts on “Veteran Nigeria actor Olu Jacobs dies at 84 ”
Olu Jacobs’ passing is a profound loss for Nigerian cinema, especially after a career that helped shape the industry through both acting and film executive work. His family’s tribute to him as “The Lion of Lufodo” is a fitting reflection of his enduring legacy.
Olu Jacobs’ passing is a profound loss for Nigerian theatre and film. His family’s description of him as “The Lion of Lufodo” captures the lasting strength and influence he brought to generations of audiences.
A profound loss for Nollywood. Olu Jacobs’ remarkable career and legacy as “The Lion of Lufodo” will live on through the generations of actors and audiences he inspired. My condolences to his family, especially his wife, children, and grandchildren.
Olu Jacobs’ passing is a profound loss to Nigerian cinema, and his son’s tribute to “The Lion of Lufodo” captures the legacy he leaves behind. His decades of acting and film leadership will be remembered by generations.
Olu Jacobs’ remarkable legacy in Nigerian film will endure, and his family’s description of him as “The Lion of Lufodo” captures the strength of his career and character. My condolences to his wife, children, grandchildren, and the entire Nigerian entertainment community.
A profound loss for Nigerian cinema. Olu Jacobs’ decades of memorable performances and leadership at Lufodo leave an enduring legacy, and the tribute describing him as “The Lion of Lufodo” is deeply fitting.