By John Dike, Osogbo
Nigeria’s entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran Nollywood actor, Oludotun Baiyewunmi Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, at the age of 84.
Jacobs’ death was announced on Wednesday by his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, and their son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a joint statement shared on Instagram.
The family, while announcing the passing of the respected actor, described him as “The Lion of Lufodo” and expressed gratitude to God for his life and enduring legacy in the Nigerian creative industry.
The statement read: “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 family also appealed to bloggers, social media influencers and members of the public to respect its privacy as it comes to terms with the loss.
The death of Jacobs marks the end of an era for one of the most recognisable faces and voices in Nigeria’s theatre, television and film industries.
Born on July 11, 1942, Olu Jacobs built a career spanning more than five decades, earning widespread recognition for his commanding stage presence, distinctive baritone voice and ability to portray a wide range of characters.
He was particularly renowned for his portrayals of authoritative, traditional and aristocratic characters, although his career extended far beyond such roles.
Over the decades, Jacobs appeared in several Nigerian and international productions, including The Dogs of War, Vigilante, Omeruah’s Advice, Blood Diamond and Dry.
His career also reflected the transition of Nigerian entertainment from traditional theatre and television productions into the modern Nollywood industry.
Jacobs was among the generation of actors whose professional backgrounds in theatre helped establish acting as a serious and respected career in Nigeria.
Beyond his work in front of the camera, Jacobs also contributed to the development of the next generation of performers.
He and his wife, Joke Silva, co-founded the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, through which aspiring actors and other creative professionals were trained and mentored.
His contributions to the Nigerian arts industry earned him the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic, MFR.
For many Nigerians and lovers of African cinema, Jacobs was more than an actor. His long career made him a familiar presence across generations, with his performances helping to shape the country’s television, theatre and film culture.
His death is expected to trigger tributes from colleagues, filmmakers, theatre practitioners and admirers across Nigeria and beyond.
Jacobs is survived by his wife, Joke Silva, children and grandchildren.
