Veteran Nigerian actor, Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
The family announced his death on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, describing the acclaimed actor as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle.
In a statement announcing his passing, the family said Jacobs died after a life they described as “well lived and fought.”
“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 said.
The statement identified the veteran actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and gave his dates of birth and death as July 11, 1942, and September 16, 2026.
Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s prominent actors, with a career spanning several decades across stage, television and film. He became widely recognised for his performances and was regarded as one of the veteran figures who contributed to the growth of Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
His career covered both theatre and screen productions, earning him a place among the country’s respected acting personalities.
Beyond his professional career, Jacobs was also known for his long standing presence in Nigeria’s creative industry, where he worked across different generations of actors and filmmakers.
While announcing his death, the family appealed to members of the media and social media community to give them privacy as they mourn their loss.
“We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time,” the family said.
The family did not disclose the cause of death or provide further details surrounding his passing in the statement.
The death of Jacobs marks the loss of a veteran of Nigeria’s performing arts whose career spanned decades and whose work made him a familiar face to generations of Nigerian audiences.
Tributes are expected to follow from colleagues, fans and other stakeholders in the entertainment industry as they remember his contribution to Nigerian theatre, television and film.