Tributes Pour In As Olu Jacobs Dies At 84
Tributes have poured in from actors, filmmakers and public figures following the death of veteran actor Oludotun Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who died on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at the age of 84.
Jacobs’ death was confirmed by his family in a statement shared by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, which described the actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and gave his dates as July 11, 1942, to September 16, 2026.
“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,” the family said.
The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect its privacy as it mourns the veteran actor.
Richard Mofe-Damijo, who fondly referred to Jacobs as “Uncle Jay,” described the late actor as an icon, pioneer and giant whose career helped create a path for generations of performers.
Mofe-Damijo recalled Jacobs’ influence on Nigerian theatre and film, stressing the significance of his return to Nigeria and his commitment to excellence, discipline and integrity in the profession.
“To me, he was Uncle Jay,” Mofe-Damijo wrote.
He added: “Uncle Jay, you have taken your final bow.”
Mofe-Damijo also reflected on Jacobs’ influence on younger actors, noting that his presence in the industry helped make it possible for subsequent generations to pursue careers in Nigerian entertainment.
Kate Henshaw also mourned the veteran actor, describing him as “a great one” while bidding farewell to the performer she affectionately called “Uncle Olu.”
“Adieu to a great one. Rest well, Uncle Olu Jacobs,” Henshaw wrote.
She also prayed for comfort for Jacobs’ family and those mourning his death.
Funke Akindele described Jacobs as “a true legend,” while remembering him as a kind and gracious man who supported, encouraged and uplifted younger talents.
Akindele said Jacobs’ contribution to the Nigerian film industry would not be forgotten and extended her condolences to his family, colleagues and the wider creative community.
Mercy Johnson also recalled her experiences working with Jacobs, describing their time together on film sets as precious memories filled with laughter, joy and corrections.
“You will be deeply missed, Uncle Olu, but your memories and the lives you touched will continue to speak for you,” Johnson said.
Ini Edo joined the tributes, writing, “Rest well Uncle! You will forever be in our hearts.”
Williams Uchemba described Jacobs’ life as “a life well spent” and added, “Rest Well Legend.”
Macaroni remembered Jacobs as a “Legend, Icon and an absolute Inspiration to us all!”
Broda Shaggi prayed for Jacobs’ eternal rest and said his memory would remain alive among those who knew and loved him.
“May his soul find eternal rest at the right hand of God, and may his memory live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him,” Shaggi wrote.
Isbae U also paid tribute, simply writing, “Rest well Legend.”
Other entertainers who joined the mourning included Bukky Wright, Kehinde Bankole, Ken Erics, Ruth Kadiri, Femi Jacobs, Eniola Ajao and Bolanle Ninalowo.
Outside the entertainment industry, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described Jacobs as “an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit.”
Abubakar said Jacobs was more than an actor, recalling his distinctive voice, dignity and talent and his contribution to the foundations of an industry that later became globally recognised as Nollywood.
“Long before Nollywood became a global phenomenon, Olu Jacobs was already carrying the Nigerian name with distinction,” Abubakar said.
President Bola Tinubu also mourned Jacobs, describing him as a major figure whose career spanned theatre, television and film.
Tinubu said Jacobs’ contribution to Nigeria’s creative industry would remain significant, while extending condolences to his family, colleagues and the wider creative community.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo also paid tribute, describing Jacobs as a “consummate actor,” “quintessential professional,” “god of the screen,” “legend of the stage,” “role model” and “perfect gentleman.”
“Olu Jacobs. Rest in peace,” Keyamo wrote.
Jacobs’ death marks the end of a career spanning more than five decades across theatre, television and film in Nigeria and abroad.
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before working in British television and international film productions.
His early screen credits included appearances in productions such as The Goodies, Till Death Us Do Part, Barlow at Large, The Venturers, Angels, The Tomorrow People and The Professionals.
He also appeared in international films including The Dogs of War, Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend and Pirates.
After returning to Nigeria, Jacobs became one of the most recognisable figures in the country’s developing film industry, playing prominent roles across theatre, television and Nollywood productions.
His contribution to the creative industry was recognised with the national honour of the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011.
He subsequently received the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2013 and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Africa Movie Academy Awards in 2016.
Jacobs was also closely associated with the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, which he established with his wife, Joke Silva, further extending his contribution beyond acting into the development of performing arts.
The actor celebrated his 84th birthday on Saturday, July 11, 2026, just over two months before his death.
As tributes continue to emerge, colleagues and admirers are remembering Jacobs not only for the characters he portrayed but also for his influence on younger performers and his contribution to the growth of Nigeria’s theatre and film industry.
The family has not disclosed an official cause of death or announced funeral arrangements as of Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
Jacobs is survived by his wife, Joke Silva, their children and grandchildren.
