The Federal Government and the Presidential Candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the forthcoming 2027 general elections, Prince Adewole Adebayo, have expressed grief over the passing of Nigeria’s legendary actor and cultural icon, Sir Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, who died on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at the age of 84.
Reacting to the news, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, in a statement issued by her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr Nneka Ikem Anibeze, described his death as a monumental loss to Nigeria and the entire creative industry.
‘Olu Jacobs was not just an actor, he was a national institution. He was one of the most important pillars of Nigeria’s entertainment industry and one of Africa’s greatest actors.
‘For over five decades, his voice, his presence and his craft gave life to our stories and gave dignity to our industry.
‘Through the Lufodo Academy which has trained hundreds of actors, directors and filmmakers who are now leading Nollywood, and the countless lives he touched, his legacy will continue to live on stage, on screen and in the hearts of millions of Nigerians.
‘Nigeria has lost a Lion, but his light will never fade.
‘On behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria and the entire creative community, the Ministry also extends heartfelt condolences to Dame Joke Silva, his children, and other family members,’ the Minister said.
On his part, Prince Adebayo, in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja by his campaign’s Head of Communications, Comrade Mark Adebayo, described the late Jacobs as a giant whose passing had left an irreplaceable void in the global film industry.
Adebayo said Olu Jacobs defined the golden era of Nigerian entertainment through his discipline and professionalism, adding that the late actor set a high standard for acting in Africa and beyond.
According to him, ‘Olu Jacobs defined the golden era of Nigerian entertainment with absolute discipline, he treated every role with dignity and respect.
‘He set a golden standard for acting across Africa and beyond. His iconic voice and commanding stage presence inspired millions.’
The statement further added that, ‘Jacobs also used his talent to shape culture and mentor younger generations, while helping Nigerian cinema gain international recognition.
‘He paved the way for Nollywood to gain international respect , his stories touched the hearts of both old and young film lovers. His life’s work will continue to teach and inspire future filmmakers.’
The SDP presidential candidate extended his condolences to the late actor’s family, particularly his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, as well as colleagues and stakeholders across the entertainment industry.
‘Nigeria has lost a national treasure,’ Adebayo said.
‘Olu Jacobs was a professional to the core who positively impacted his generation and beyond. He did not just act stories; he shaped our collective history. We weep because he is gone, but we celebrate because his light will never truly go out.’