Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.

Jacobs’ death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in an Instagram post on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.

In the family’s statement, Olusoji described the late actor as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, referring to him as “The Lion of Lufodo.” The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect its privacy during the mourning period.

Born on July 11, 1942, Olu Jacobs built a career spanning more than five decades across theatre, television and film. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London before appearing in British television productions and international films.

After returning to Nigeria, Jacobs became one of the prominent figures in the country's film industry and was widely recognised for his performances across numerous Nigerian productions. He reportedly featured in more than 100 films during his career.

His contributions to the entertainment industry earned him several honours, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007 and the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.

Jacobs was married to veteran actress Joke Silva, with whom he was also involved in the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.

His death marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned theatre, television and cinema and made him one of the most recognisable names in Nigerian entertainment.

Olu Jacobs died on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84.