Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
The family announced his passing on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, in a statement shared on social media. The tribute described Jacobs as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, and called him “The Lion of Lufodo.” The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn.
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The statement gave his dates of birth and death as July 11, 1942, and September 16, 2026.
Family announces Olu Jacobs’ passing
The family’s announcement described Jacobs’ life as one that had been “well lived and fought” and asked the public to give them privacy during this period of grief.
Reports differ on which family member shared the announcement: some identify his son, Olusoji Jacobs, while others say his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, announced the news. The central details in the family statement—the date of his death and his age—are consistent across the reports.
A career spanning theatre, television and film
Born in 1942, Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before building a career in theatre, British television and international films.
He later returned to Nigeria and became one of Nollywood’s most recognised performers, appearing in numerous films and earning a reputation for his commanding screen presence.
His work extended beyond acting. Jacobs was also a film executive and, alongside Joke Silva, co-founded the Lufodo Group, which includes the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.
A respected figure in Nollywood
Across his decades-long career, Jacobs became known to audiences for portraying a wide range of characters, including influential and traditional leaders.
His contributions to the arts were recognised in 2011, when he received the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
Jacobs’ career connected British and Nigerian screen traditions, and his performances helped make him a familiar presence to generations of film audiences.
Married to Joke Silva
He was married to fellow veteran actress Joke Silva. The couple worked together in the entertainment industry and built a family while maintaining long careers in film and theatre.
He is survived by Silva, their sons and a granddaughter, according to reports on the family announcement.
Family asks for privacy
In its statement, the family specifically asked bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy.
The appeal comes as news of Jacobs’ death spreads across social media and entertainment platforms. The family has not shared further details in the announcement, and its request for privacy should be respected.
Nollywood remembers a veteran performer
Jacobs’ death marks the end of a career that spanned several decades and crossed theatre, television and film in Britain and Nigeria.
As tributes emerge, audiences are remembering his extensive body of work and his place among the veteran actors who helped shape Nigerian cinema.
For now, the family’s announcement remains the central confirmation of his passing. The family has asked for privacy as it mourns the actor, husband, father and grandfather.
May his soul rest in peace.
Read the breaking report from TVC News — Olu Jacobs Dies at 84
