Veteran actor Olu Jacobs dies at 84, his son Olusoji Jacobs announced, asking the public to respect the family’s privacy

On Wednesday, 16 September 2026, veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, known as Olu Jacobs, died at the age of 84.

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His son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced the death on Instagram, according to TVC News. The family statement gave his dates as 11 July 1942 to 16 September 2026 and asked the public to give them space.

“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). We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our families privacy at this time.”

Olu Jacobs was one of Nollywood’s most respected screen actors, with work in theatre, British television, international films and hundreds of Nigerian movies.

He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and later helped build the Lufodo Group with his wife, actress Joke Silva, covering production, distribution and actor training. In 2011 he received the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic.

False reports of his death circulated in earlier years, and Joke Silva as well as other colleagues had previously said he was alive while he was being treated for Lewy body dementia. Wednesday’s notice came from the family and named a date of death.

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The family has not published a cause of death or funeral details.