…as AVRS mourns.
By Chris Onuoha
Nigeria’s famous screen icon and one of the respected personality in the movie industry, Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs, popularly known as “Olu Jacobs” has made a glorious transition from mother earth after a long battle with ill-health.
The screen giant whose acting career span for decades with an impeccable demeanor succumbed to death on September 16, 2026 having survived stretched duel with health challenges.
Born on 11 July 1942, Olu Jacobs departed this world on 16 September 2026, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of excellence, professionalism and devotion to his craft.
This comes as many groups in the movie industry including friends and associates bereave the loss of an icon.
One of the movie bodies, Audio Visual Rights Society of Nigeria (AVRS) in a condolence message signed by it’s chairman, Mahmood Ali-Balogun and Sani Muazu, FFA FDGN, Chairman
Information Committee stated: “It is with gratitude to God for a remarkable life, well lived and courageously fought, that the we identify with the passing of our dear member, one of the most recognisable and respected figures in the Nigerian creative industry, an actor of international repute and a true giant of the stage and screen, Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs, MFR — the great Olu Jacobs, “The Lion of Lufodo.”
“He lived a life worthy of celebration and emulation. For generations of Nigerian actors, Olu Jacobs was more than a performer; he was a standard. His commanding presence, distinctive voice, discipline and mastery of character made him a reference point for younger actors seeking to understand the depth and dignity of the acting profession.
“He came. He conquered the stage. He mastered its intricacies, set new standards of professional practice, elevated the art of performance, and now departs as an icon.
According to the body, Olu Jacobs’ career transcended generations and borders, helping to demonstrate the immense possibilities of Nigerian talent on both local and international platforms. They noted that his footprints will remain firmly embedded in the history of Nigerian theatre, television and cinema.
“At this difficult moment, AVRS also pays special tribute to his beloved wife and distinguished actress, Joke Silva, whose devotion, strength and loving care for her husband, particularly through his long period of illness, have been exemplary. She stood beside him with remarkable dignity and demonstrated the profound meaning of partnership, family and commitment.
“The Board, Management and entire membership of AVRS commiserate with Joke Silva, the Jacobs family, his friends and colleagues, and the entire Nigerian creative industry over the passing of this extraordinary man.
“The curtain may have fallen, but the performances, the lessons and the legacy remain,” the stated
Besides, other various bodies in the industry have continued to express their feelings over his death. For some reasonable time, the icon has battled with health challenges that put him on the hot spot.
Many tabloid within the period of health check, rumoured about his death, which his wife, Joke Silva debunked, while showcasing the video of the icon speaking from home maintaining he is hale and hearty.
However, the news of his demise also came with mixed feelings until authentic information to confirm his demise reached the press.
For the icon, Olu Jacobs, News now.Africa joined the mass mourners to bid him fare well, urging the family to take heart.
