President Bola Tinubu and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have mourned veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Olu Jacobs, who died at the age of 84.
His son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced his death on Wednesday via a statement on Instagram.
The family described the veteran actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and called for privacy as they mourn his death.
“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 statement read.
The family has also pleaded with bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy during the mourning period.
Mourning his death, President Tinubu described Jacobs as a highly distinguished actor and an iconic figure whose career was cut across theatre, television and film.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said Jacobs contributed significantly to the development and professionalisation of Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Tinubu also stated that the late actor inspired generations of actors and filmmakers through his talent, discipline and dedication to his craft.
“He was a giant of the Nigerian creative industry. His passing is a great loss to Nigeria, the African film industry and the global community of lovers of the performing arts,” the President said.
Tinubu also commended Jacobs for bringing depth, dignity and authenticity to his roles, saying his body of work would continue to speak to generations.
The President extended his condolences to Jacobs’ wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, their children, relatives, colleagues and the wider creative community.
Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Atiku also described Jacobs’ death as the loss of “an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit.”
In a tribute posted on X, Atiku said Jacobs was a familiar and commanding presence in the homes of generations of Nigerians, praising his distinctive voice, dignity and talent.
According to him, Jacobs was making waves internationally well before Nollywood's global rise and played a key role in building the foundation of the Nigerian film industry.
“The curtain may have fallen on an extraordinary life, but the characters he gave us, the standards he set and the generations he inspired will continue to speak for him,” Atiku said.
He equally expressed his condolences with Silva, their children, the Jacobs family, and the Nollywood and African creative industries.