Veteran Nigerian actor Olu Jacobs dies at 84

Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.

His son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced his death in an Instagram post on Wednesday.

In the statement, Olusoji described his father as The Lion of Lufodo and said the family was grateful to God for his life and legacy.

“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,” he wrote.

He also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family’s privacy as they mourn the veteran actor.

Olu Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most prominent actors, with a career spanning theatre, television and film.

He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) in London and began his acting career in British television before appearing in several international productions.

He later returned to Nigeria, where he established himself as one of the country’s most recognisable actors and became a major figure in the Nigerian film industry.

Throughout his career, Jacobs featured in numerous Nigerian films and became known for his commanding screen presence and performances in a wide range of roles.

His contribution to the African film industry earned him several honours, including the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF).

Beyond acting, Jacobs was also involved in the business and development of Nigeria’s performing arts industry.

Together with his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, he was involved in the Lufodo Group, a company associated with film, theatre and other creative arts activities.

His career and contribution to the Nigerian entertainment industry spanned several decades, making him one of the veteran figures whose work helped shape the country’s modern film and theatre landscape.

Source: GRAPHIC ONLINE