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 Wednesday, September 16, 2026, by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a statement shared on Instagram. The family described him as “The Lion of Lufodo” and expressed gratitude for a life well lived.
“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 Baiyewu Jacobs (MFR) 11/07/1942 – 16/09/2026. We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time,” the statement read.
Born on July 11, 1942, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London. He began his career in British television in the 1970s, appearing in series such as The Goodies, Till Death Us Do Part, Angels, and The Professionals, before featuring in international films including Ashanti and The Dogs of War.
Upon returning to Nigeria, he became one of Nollywood’s most respected figures, starring in over 100 films and earning a reputation for his commanding presence and versatility.
He won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, received the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, and was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. In 2011, he was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
Together with his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, Jacobs co-founded the Lufodo Group, a media company involved in film production, distribution, and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.
In recent years, Jacobs had been battling Lewy body dementia, a condition that kept him largely away from the screen. False reports of his death had circulated several times in the past, only for the family to debunk them.
He is survived by his wife, Joke Silva, and their two sons, Olusoji and Olugbenga Jacobs.