Veteran Nollywood Icon Olu Jacobs Dies at 84 as Tinubu, Atiku, Colleagues Pay Tributes

PHOTO CREDIT: The Sun Nigeria / Original photo from Olu Jacobs family
Veteran Nollywood Icon Olu Jacobs Dies at 84 as Tinubu, Atiku, Colleagues Pay Tributes
Nigeria’s entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of legendary actor, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs. He was 84.

The news of his passing was announced by his family through his son, Olusoji Jacobs, sparking an outpouring of tributes from across the country.

President Bola Tinubu, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the late actor as a giant of the Nigerian creative industry.

According to the President, Jacobs’ death is a huge loss not just to Nigeria, but to African cinema and the global performing arts community.

“He was a giant of the Nigerian creative industry. His passing is a great loss to Nigeria, the African film industry and the global community of lovers of the performing arts. His remarkable body of work will continue to speak to generations yet unborn,” Tinubu said.

The President praised Jacobs for bringing depth, dignity and authenticity to his roles, and commiserated with his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, his children and the entire Nollywood community.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, also joined in mourning the screen legend, acknowledging his immense contributions to arts and culture in Nigeria.

Tributes also poured in from Nollywood stars including Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD), Kate Henshaw, Funke Akindele, Mercy Johnson-Okojie, Saidi Balogun, Yemi Solade, Mr Macaroni, Kemi Ajumbobi and musician Paul Play Dairo, who all celebrated his professionalism, mentorship and fatherly role in the industry.

Born on July 11, 1942, Olu Jacobs trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London. He built an impressive career in British theatre and television before returning to Nigeria, where he became one of the defining faces of Nollywood.

Renowned for his commanding presence, distinctive voice and his portrayal of kings, chiefs and patriarchs, Jacobs featured in scores of films and stage productions.

Together with his wife, Joke Silva, he founded the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, dedicated to training young talents.

His illustrious career earned him numerous awards and the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).

He is survived by his wife, children and family.

SOURCE: The Sun Nigeria