Veteran Nigerian actor Olu Jacobs has died at the age of 84.

The death of the actor, whose full name was Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a statement shared on Instagram on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.

“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 read.

The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn.

Olu Jacobs was one of the most prominent figures in Nigerian film, with a career spanning more than five decades. Before establishing himself as a major force in Nollywood, he trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and appeared in British television productions and international films.

He later returned to Nigeria, where he built a long career across theatre, television and film, becoming known for roles in productions including The Third Eye and numerous Nollywood films.

Over the course of his career, Jacobs received several honours, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic national honour in 2011 and lifetime achievement recognition from major film institutions.

He was married to veteran actress Joke Silva, with whom he co-founded the Lufodo Group.