Veteran Nigerian actress, Joke Silva, has announced the death of her husband and legendary Nollywood actor, Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs.
Silva announced his passing in a statement on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, describing the celebrated actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and expressing gratitude for a life she described as well lived and fought.
According to the statement, Jacobs died at the age of 84.
“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. Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs (MFR) 11/07/1942 – 16/09/2026.”
Silva also appealed to bloggers, social media influencers and members of the online community to respect the family’s privacy as they mourn the veteran actor.
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“We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time,” she said.
A Legacy Spanning Decades
Born on July 11, 1942, Olu Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most respected actors, with a career spanning stage, television and film.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before beginning a career that included appearances in British television productions and international films.
He later became one of the defining figures of Nigeria’s film industry, earning widespread recognition for his commanding screen presence, versatility and contribution to the growth of Nollywood.
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Over a career spanning more than five decades, Jacobs received several major honours, including the African Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role and lifetime achievement recognition.
In 2011, he was conferred with the Nigerian national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) for his contribution to the country’s film industry.
Life and Work With Joke Silva
Olu Jacobs and Joke Silva were one of Nigeria’s most prominent entertainment couples.
Together, they established the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, contributing to film production, theatre and the training of aspiring performing artists.
Silva had remained a strong presence in Jacobs’ life during his later years, occasionally sharing tributes and updates while maintaining the family’s privacy.
In recent years, Jacobs largely stayed away from the public spotlight.
Years of False Death Reports
The announcement comes after several false reports of Jacobs’ death had circulated on social media over the years.
In June 2024, for example, Joke Silva publicly dismissed another death rumour, saying her husband was alive and doing well.
Similar reports had also circulated in 2021 and 2022, prompting Silva and other associates of the family to publicly debunk them.
In July 2026, Silva publicly celebrated Jacobs’ 84th birthday, describing him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”
With Silva’s announcement on September 16, 2026, the Nigerian entertainment industry is now mourning the passing of one of its most enduring screen legends.
Olu Jacobs is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren and other members of his family.
Cruise TV News extends its condolences to the Jacobs family, friends, colleagues and admirers of the late actor.
