Nollywood has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, at the age of 84.
Jacobs, whose career spanned British television, international cinema and Nigeria’s emerging film industry, was remembered on Wednesday as one of the actors who helped establish Nigerian talent on the international stage.
His death was announced in a joint statement by his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, and their children. The family described him as “The Lion of Lufodo” and expressed gratitude to God for a life they said was well lived.
“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,” the statement said.
Tributes quickly followed from colleagues and public figures who celebrated the actor’s contribution to the entertainment industry.
Nollywood actress Bisola Aiyeola prayed for his soul to rest in peace, while Broda Shaggi described his passing as a loss that would leave his memory in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Funke Akindele and Ini Edo also paid tribute, with Edo writing, “Rest well Uncle! You will forever be in our hearts.”
Nigeria’s Ambassador-designate to Mexico, Reno Omokri, described Jacobs as a national icon whose international career inspired generations of Nigerian actors.
Omokri recalled watching Jacobs appear in British television productions and international films before Nollywood became a globally recognised industry. He noted that Jacobs received professional training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and appeared in productions including the British series The Professionals, The Dogs of War alongside Christopher Walken, and Roman Polanski’s Pirates.
He also placed Jacobs among the foundational figures of Nigeria’s modern film industry, alongside his mentor, the late Chief Hubert Ogunde.
According to Omokri, Jacobs’ humility meant that others sometimes claimed the pioneering status associated with him and Ogunde, but he said the actor’s body of work provided its own historical record.
Social Democratic Party presidential candidate Prince Adewole Adebayo also mourned Jacobs, describing him in a statement released by his campaign as a major figure whose work helped transform Nigerian cinema.
Adebayo said Jacobs brought discipline and dignity to his roles, while his voice and stage presence inspired audiences across generations.
Jacobs was also praised for mentoring younger performers and contributing to Nollywood’s international recognition. The late actor was honoured by the Nigerian government during his lifetime with the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) national honour.
As condolences continue to reach the family, colleagues and admirers are remembering an actor whose career crossed generations and national borders.
