Family announces death of veteran Nollywood actor Olu Jacobs
The family of veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has announced his death at the age of 84.
His death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Instagram on Wednesday.
In a statement, the family described the late actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect its privacy at the time.
“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 family said.
Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s veteran actors, known for his contributions to theatre, television and film. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in England and began his acting career in Britain.
After returning to Nigeria, he became a prominent figure in the country’s film industry and was regarded as one of the veteran actors of Nollywood.
Jacobs won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007 and received the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
He was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011 and was married to fellow veteran actress, Joke Silva.
