Veteran Nollywood actor Taiwo ‘Ogogo’
Nigerian film industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran Nollywood actor, filmmaker and screenwriter, Alhaji Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, who died at the age of 66 after battling stage-four cancer.
His death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from political leaders, government officials, colleagues and admirers, who described him as one of the most influential figures in Nigeria’s creative industry.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar expressed deep sorrow over the actor’s passing, describing the development as heartbreaking, especially coming just days after the public became aware of his battle with cancer.
“The news of the passing of celebrated Nollywood actor, Alhaji Taiwo Hassan, is deeply saddening,” Atiku said.
“It is particularly painful that only days after the public became aware of his battle with cancer, we are confronted with the heartbreaking news of his demise.”
Reflecting on the late actor’s impact, Atiku said Hassan’s legacy extended beyond entertainment.
“Alhaji Taiwo Hassan was more than a gifted actor. Through a remarkable career, he brought laughter into countless homes, told stories that reflected our society and used his talent not only to entertain but also to educate and inspire social rebirth. His passing leaves a painful void in Nigeria’s creative community and in the hearts of the millions who cherished his work.”
The former Vice President said he joined the late actor’s family, colleagues and admirers across Nigeria and beyond in mourning the loss.
He prayed: “May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, comfort his loved ones and grant him eternal rest in Al-Jannah Firdaus. Ameen.”
The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, also paid glowing tribute to the late actor, describing him as a cultural icon and distinguished ambassador of Yoruba heritage.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, the ministry extended its condolences to Hassan’s family, friends, colleagues and the entire Nollywood community.
The Commissioner said, “Taiwo Hassan was more than an actor. He was a custodian of culture, a gifted storyteller, and a proud ambassador of Yoruba heritage. Through his remarkable career, he entertained generations while showcasing and preserving the Yoruba rich cultural values on stage and screen.
“He dedicated many years to the promotion of Yoruba culture, theatre, and the entertainment industry. His contributions to the creative sector helped shape the cultural landscape of Lagos State and Nigeria, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.”
The ministry noted that Hassan’s death represents a huge loss to Nigeria’s creative and cultural sectors, adding that his passion, talent and commitment to promoting indigenous culture would never be forgotten.
“We pray that Almighty God grants his soul eternal rest and gives his family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones the strength and fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss,” Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka stated.
Widely respected for his commanding roles in Yoruba and mainstream Nollywood productions, Taiwo Hassan built a career spanning decades, earning admiration for his exceptional performances and dedication to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage through film.
His death marks the end of an era for the Nigerian entertainment industry, where his contributions will remain etched in history.
