Gambiaj.com – (ABUJA, Nigeria) – Tributes have poured in for veteran Nigerian actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, following his death at the age of 84.
The death was announced on Wednesday by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, prompting an outpouring of grief from actors and other figures across Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Several Nollywood celebrities took to the comment section of Olusoji Jacobs’ Instagram post to pay tribute to the veteran actor and offer condolences to his family.
Actress Mercy Johnson described Jacobs as a legend, recalling their time together on film sets as precious memories filled with laughter, joy, and lessons.
“Rest on, legend…Rest well, Uncle Olu. I could never forget our moments on set, truly precious memories, filled with so much laughter, joy, and, of course, plenty of corrections,” she wrote.
Funke Akindele wrote, “May his soul rest in peace.”
Ini Edo said, “Rest well, Uncle! You will forever be in our hearts.”
Williams Uchemba described Jacobs’ life as one well spent, writing, “A life well spent, rest well, legend.”
Mr. Macaroni paid tribute to him as “a legend, an icon, and an absolute inspiration to us all!”
Broda Shaggi prayed for his eternal rest, saying, “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.”
Actress Bukky Wright said Jacobs had left an unforgettable legacy in the hearts of movie lovers, adding that his light would continue to shine through the lives he touched.
Kehinde Bankole wrote, “A beautiful life! A legendary legacy! A peaceful rest. All is well… Journey well sir.”
Ken Erics also paid tribute, saying, “May God bless his soul. Forever in our hearts.”
A career spanning theater, television, and film
Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most prominent veteran actors, with a career spanning theater, television, and film.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London and began his acting career in British television before appearing in a number of international productions.
He later returned to Nigeria, where he became a major figure in the country’s film industry and went on to appear in numerous Nigerian productions.
Known for his commanding performances, Jacobs received several industry honors during his career, including the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa International Film Festival.
A legacy beyond acting
Beyond acting, Jacobs was also a film executive and played a role in the development of Nigeria’s performing arts industry.
Together with his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, he was involved in the Lufodo Group, contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s theater and film sectors.
His death marks the passing of one of the figures who helped bridge Nigeria’s theatre tradition, television, and the modern Nollywood film industry.
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