Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the death of veteran Nollywood actor, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, describing his passing as a major loss to Nigeria’s creative industry.
Jacobs, who died at the age of 84 on Wednesday, was one of Nigeria’s most recognised actors, with a career spanning theatre, television and film in Nigeria, Britain and beyond. His death was announced by his family on Wednesday.
Sanwo-Olu, in a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, said the late actor’s contributions to the creative industry would remain evergreen.
The governor described Jacobs’ talent, grace and creativity as exceptional, noting that the veteran thespian used his craft to entertain, inspire and positively influence society.
Sanwo-Olu said: “Without any iota of doubt, Olu Jacobs is one of the respected fathers of Nollywood. He was a legendary actor and filmmaker who featured in several British and Nigerian television series and movies.
“He shaped the Nigerian theatre, television, and film industry for over five decades. His extraordinary life and the lasting impact he made with his artistry have solidified his legacy.
“The vibrant spirit he embodied and the joy he shared through his craft will always remain in our hearts.”
Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and built an extensive career across stage, television and cinema before becoming one of the defining figures of Nigeria’s emerging film industry.
He was recognised with several honours during his career, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007 and the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
Beyond acting, Jacobs and his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, co-founded the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, contributing to the development and training of performers in Nigeria.
Sanwo-Olu extended his condolences to Silva, the Jacobs family, friends, colleagues and the wider Nigerian entertainment industry.
He added: “Olu Jacobs will be sorely missed by family, friends, fans, associates, and countless admirers of his talent and contributions to Nigerian entertainment.”
The governor prayed for the repose of the late actor’s soul and asked God to grant his family, friends and members of the creative industry the strength to bear the loss and the comfort to preserve and honour his legacy.
The Jacobs family, in announcing his death, described him as “The Lion of Lufodo” and appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family’s privacy during the period of mourning.
