Veteran Nigerian actor, Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
Jacobs’ death was announced by his family in the early hours of Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
His son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced the death in a post on Instagram, describing his father as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle.
He also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family’s privacy as they mourned the veteran actor.
RELATED NEWS:
- Former Kagame Bodyguard Dies After 12 Years in Prison
- Eagle Online Publisher Dotun Oladipo Dies at 56
- Former UBA Chair Israel Ogbue Dies at 99
- Imam Who Sheltered 300 Christians During 2018 Plateau Attacks, Dies at 92
“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,” Olusoji wrote.
He added, “Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs (MFR) 11/07/1942-16/09/2026.
Family Pleads For Privacy
“We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time.”
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs built a career spanning several decades and featured in Nigerian, British and international film and television productions from the 1970s.
His contributions to the entertainment industry earned him several honours during his career.
In 2021, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF).
The following year, the Audio-Visual Rights Society of Nigeria (AVRS) honoured him with an Icon Award.
Jacobs was also recognised at the 2023 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), where he received the Industry Merit Award for his outstanding achievements in acting.
The veteran actor married fellow actress Joke Silva in 1989. The couple have two children.
Jacobs remained one of Nigeria’s most recognised actors, with a career that helped bridge the country’s film industry with British and international productions.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.