Atiku, Keyamo, Celebrities Mourn Veteran Actor Olu Jacobs

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo, and several Nigerian entertainers have mourned veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who died at the age of 84.

Jacobs’ death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in an Instagram post on Wednesday. He described his father as “The Lion of Lufodo” and appealed for the family’s privacy.

Reacting to the death in a statement posted on his X handle, Atiku described Jacobs as “an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit.”

Atiku said Nigeria had lost more than a celebrated actor, noting that Jacobs had become part of the country’s collective cultural memory through decades of distinguished work in theatre, television and film.

“For generations of Nigerians, Olu Jacobs was a familiar and commanding presence in our homes. That unmistakable voice, the dignity he brought to every role and the sheer force of his talent made him one of those rare artists who did not merely act before an audience, but became part of our collective memory,” he said.

The former vice president added that Jacobs played an important role in the development of Nigeria’s film industry, particularly before Nollywood gained international recognition.

“Long before Nollywood became a global phenomenon, Olu Jacobs was already carrying the Nigerian name with distinction. Through decades of dedication to his craft, he helped lay the foundations upon which an entire industry would rise. He gave life to our stories, dignity to our culture and inspiration to countless younger actors who followed the path he helped to clear,” Atiku said.

He also expressed condolences to Jacobs’ wife, actress Joke Silva, their children and the wider entertainment community.

“My heart goes especially to his beloved wife and lifelong partner, Joke Silva, their children and the entire Jacobs family. I pray that the memories of the beautiful life they shared with him will bring them strength through this painful season,” he said.

Atiku added that Jacobs would be remembered for his talent, voice and lifetime of service to the creative industry.

“May God grant his soul eternal rest and comfort his family in this hour of grief,” he said.

Keyamo also paid tribute to the late actor in a post on X, describing him as a consummate actor and professional.

“Consummate actor; quintessential professional; god of the screen and legend of the stage; role model and perfect gentleman. Olu Jacobs. Rest in peace,” the minister wrote.

Several actors, comedians and content creators also took to social media to mourn Jacobs.

Content creator Broda Shaggi prayed for the late actor’s soul and said his memory would live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Actor and content creator William Uchemba wrote, “A life well spent, Rest Well Legend.”

Isbae U also paid tribute, writing, “Rest well Legend ❤️🕊️,” while Mr Macaroni described Jacobs as a “Legend, Icon and an absolute Inspiration to us all!”

Actress Ini Edo wrote, “Rest well Uncle! You will forever be in our hearts ❤️❤️❤️😇.”

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

Born on July 11, 1942, he trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and appeared in several British television productions and international films before becoming a major figure in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

He was also a film executive and, alongside his wife, Joke Silva, was associated with the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.

His contributions to the industry earned him several honours, including the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2013 and the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa Movie Academy Awards in 2016.

He was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.