Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.

His son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced his death on Instagram on Wednesday, describing him as “The Lion of Lufodo.” The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect its privacy as it mourns.

Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs built a career spanning more than five decades across theatre, British television, international film and Nollywood. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before appearing in British television productions and international films.

He later became one of Nigeria’s most recognisable actors, featuring in more than 100 films and earning several honours, including the 2007 Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor and the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).

Jacobs and his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, also founded the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, contributing to the development of Nigeria’s theatre and film industry.

The actor had largely withdrawn from public life in his later years. His death comes after years of false reports about his passing, which his family had repeatedly dismissed before his death was officially announced on Wednesday.