'RIP my legend’ – Van Vicker pays tribute to late Olu Jacobs

Ghanaian actor Van Vicker has mourned the death of veteran Nollywood actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs.

Van Vicker said Jacobs played an important role in his early acting career in Nigeria, recalling that the late actor offered him guidance when he secured his first job in the country.

Jacobs died at the age of 84 on Wednesday, September 16, as anounced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs.

“The veteran has bowed out. OMG! My very first job in Nigeria in 2005/06 was with Olu Jacobs. He gave me a few tips. Amazing actor. RIP my legend,” Van Vicker wrote in a social media post.

The Ghanaian actor’s tribute came shortly after the Jacobs family confirmed the death of the veteran actor and appealed to the public to respect their privacy.

“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,” Olusoji Jacobs wrote in announcing his father’s death.

The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect its privacy during the mourning period.

Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most prominent veteran actors, with a career spanning theatre, television and film.

He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London and began his professional career in British theatre and television before featuring in international productions.

He later returned to Nigeria and established himself as a major figure in the country’s film industry, appearing in several Nigerian and international productions.

Jacobs’ death has since triggered tributes from colleagues and other members of the African entertainment industry.