Veteran Nigerian actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, widely known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
His wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, and the family announced his death on Wednesday, September 16.
Jacobs, one of the most recognisable figures of Nigerian film and theatre, celebrated his 84th birthday just over two months ago, on July 11.
Born in 1942, he trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and began his career on stage and British television before becoming a major figure in Nigeria’s film industry.
His career spanned several decades, with appearances in numerous Nigerian films as well as international television and film productions. His commanding screen presence made him particularly well known for roles as kings, elders and traditional leaders.
In 2007, Jacobs won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. In 2011, he was awarded the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic, MFR, one of Nigeria’s national honours.
Together with Joke Silva, he also helped establish the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, contributing to the training of younger generations of Nigerian actors.
In recent years, Jacobs had largely withdrawn from public life. Silva previously disclosed that her husband was living with Lewy body dementia, a progressive neurological condition.
News of his death is particularly significant because false reports of Jacobs’ death had circulated several times in previous years, forcing his family to publicly deny them. This time, his death has been announced by his wife and family.
Tributes are beginning to pour in from Nigeria’s entertainment industry and fans following the announcement.
The family has asked for privacy as it mourns and said details of his burial arrangements will be announced later.
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