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

His wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, announced his death in an Instagram post on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.

In a statement accompanying a photograph of the late actor, the family described Jacobs as “the Lion of Lufodo” and said he lived a life of gratitude and purpose.

The statement read in part: “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.”

It gave his dates as: “Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs (MFR), 11/07/1942 – 16/09/2026.”

The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourned the veteran actor.

Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs had a distinguished acting career spanning several decades. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and appeared in British television productions and international films before becoming one of Nigeria’s most respected actors.

He featured in numerous Nigerian films and was celebrated for his commanding screen presence, distinctive voice and contribution to the development of Nollywood.

Jacobs was also a co-founder of the Lufodo Group, which includes the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, alongside Silva.

In recognition of his contribution to the Nigerian arts, the Federal Government honoured him with the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.

Silva had previously revealed that her husband was living with Lewy body dementia, a progressive condition that can affect thinking, movement and behaviour.

Jacobs celebrated his 84th birthday on July 11, 2026.