On Wednesday, 16 September 2026, former vice-president Atiku Abubakar, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo, and several Nigerian entertainers joined the mourning for veteran actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, known as Olu Jacobs, who died at 84.
Olusoji Jacobs announced his father’s death on Instagram and called Olu Jacobs “The Lion of Lufodo.”
Also read: BREAKING: Veteran actor Olu Jacobs dies at 84
Atiku Abubakar posted on X that Nigeria had lost more than a fine actor. “I am profoundly saddened by the passing of Olu Jacobs at the age of 84. Nigeria has lost far more than a great actor; we have lost an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit.”
Atiku Abubakar said generations knew that voice and the dignity Olu Jacobs brought to every part. “Long before Nollywood became a global phenomenon, Olu Jacobs was already carrying the Nigerian name with distinction. Through decades of dedication to his craft, he helped lay the foundations upon which an entire industry would rise.”
He sent condolences to Joke Silva, their children and the Jacobs family. “My heart goes especially to his beloved wife and lifelong partner, Joke Silva, their children and the entire Jacobs family. I pray that the memories of the beautiful life they shared with him will bring them strength through this painful season. Olu Jacobs gave Nigeria his talent, his voice and a lifetime of excellence. Nigeria will remember him with pride, affection and profound gratitude.”
Festus Keyamo wrote: “Consummate actor; quintessential professional; god of the screen and legend of the stage; role model and perfect gentleman. Olu Jacobs. Rest in peace.”
Content creator Broda Shaggi asked that Olu Jacobs’ soul find rest and that his memory live on.
Actor William Uchemba wrote, “A life well spent, Rest Well Legend.” Isbae U wrote, “Rest well Legend.” Adebowale Adedayo, known as Mr Macaroni, called Olu Jacobs a “Legend, Icon and an absolute Inspiration to us all!” Actress Ini Edo wrote, “Rest well Uncle! You will forever be in our hearts.”
Olu Jacobs was born on 11 July 1942. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, appeared in British television and international films, then became a central figure in Nigerian cinema.
With Joke Silva he was linked to the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.
Also read: BREAKING: Veteran actor Olu Jacobs dies at 84
He received the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2013 and was made a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
