His death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in an Instagram post on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
In the statement, the family described the late actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect its privacy as they mourned his passing.
“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
“We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our families privacy at this time.”
Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most respected veteran actors, with a career spanning theatre, television and film in Nigeria and abroad.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in England and began his acting career in Britain, where he worked with repertoire theatres and appeared in British television productions and international films.
After returning to Nigeria, Jacobs became a prominent figure in the country’s film industry and was widely recognised as one of the veteran actors who helped shape Nollywood.
He won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007 and received the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards.
He was also honoured with the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016 and conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
Jacobs was married to fellow veteran actress, Joke Silva, with whom he had children.
His death brings to an end the life and career of one of the prominent figures of Nigeria’s theatre and film industry.
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