Veteran Nigerian actor, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, fondly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84, his family has said.
The actor’s son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced his death in a post on Instagram on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, saying the family was grateful for his life and asking the public to respect their privacy.
“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.
“We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our families privacy at this time,” he said.
And tributes have been pouring out for the late Jacobs, with actor Williams Uchemba and other Nigerians mourning the veteran actor, recalling the impact he had on their childhood and the entertainment industry.
Uchemba paid tribute to the late actor in a post on social media, describing his life as one well spent.
“A life well spent, Rest Well Legend,” Uchemba wrote.
Other Instagram users also shared memories of Jacobs, with some recalling his roles in films and television programmes they watched while growing up.
An Instagram user, deyola, wrote: “He made our childhood. May his soul rest in peace.”
Oliekun also praised Jacobs’ contribution to the arts, describing him as exceptional.
“Thank you for your contribution to the Arts, Olu Jacobs. Your were one of one and will be sorely missed,” Oliekun wrote.
Another user, shalomthefavoredone, specifically recalled Jacobs’ role as a detective in The Third Eye.
“A true legend..my childhood TV story/ experience is not complete without mentioning your name sir, especially as a detective in ‘The Third Eye’,” the user wrote.
The Instagram user added that Jacobs had “left an indelible mark on the sands of time” and extended condolences to his family.
Okikij also recalled discussing Jacobs’ influence with younger people shortly before his death.
“I was speaking about you to some young people recently that you greatly impacted us while growing up! May God Rest your kind soul,” Okikij wrote.
