BREAKING: Nollywood Mourns As Veteran Actor Olu Jacobs Dies At 84
Veteran Nigerian actor, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
The celebrated thespian died on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, according to a family announcement shared by his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, and their son.
The family described Jacobs as the “Lion of Lufodo” and said he died after a life dedicated to his family, the arts and the Nigerian entertainment industry.
“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,” the statement read.
The family appealed to the public, particularly bloggers and social media influencers, to respect their privacy as they mourn the loss.
Jacobs, who celebrated his 84th birthday on July 11, was one of Nigeria’s most respected actors, with a career spanning stage, television and film.
His death is expected to trigger widespread tributes across Nollywood and the wider African entertainment industry.
The celebrated thespian died on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, according to a family announcement shared by his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, and their son.
The family described Jacobs as the “Lion of Lufodo” and said he died after a life dedicated to his family, the arts and the Nigerian entertainment industry.
“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,” the statement read.
The family appealed to the public, particularly bloggers and social media influencers, to respect their privacy as they mourn the loss.
Jacobs, who celebrated his 84th birthday on July 11, was one of Nigeria’s most respected actors, with a career spanning stage, television and film.
His death is expected to trigger widespread tributes across Nollywood and the wider African entertainment industry.
