Nollywood legend 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, according to a report by Punch.

His death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Instagram on Wednesday. The family described the late actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy.

Jacobs was widely recognised for his contributions to theatre, television and film. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in England, beginning his acting career in Britain before returning to Nigeria, where he became one of Nollywood’s most prominent veteran figures.

He won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 AMVCAs, and the AMAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. He was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011. Jacobs was married to fellow veteran actress, Joke Silva.