President Bola Tinubu has mourned veteran Nollywood actor, filmmaker and screenwriter Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, describing his death as a major loss to the Yoruba film industry, Nollywood and Nigeria’s creative community.
In a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed his condolences to Ogogo’s family, friends and colleagues.
The President praised Ogogo’s decades-long career and his role in the growth of Yoruba-language theatre and Nigerian cinema. He said the actor’s unique style, strong screen presence and commitment to his craft entertained generations while promoting Yoruba culture and Nigeria’s rich heritage.
“Alhaji Taiwo Hassan was a gifted artiste who used his talent to tell Nigerian stories, preserve our cultural heritage and entertain audiences at home and abroad.
“His passing is a great loss to his family, the Yoruba film industry, Nollywood and the entire Nigerian creative community.
“On behalf of the Federal Government, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, friends and millions of admirers. I pray that Almighty Allah will grant him eternal rest and give his loved ones the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” Tinubu said.
Tinubu said Ogogo’s works would remain part of Nigeria’s cultural history, while his mentorship of younger artistes showed his lasting impact.
He urged Nigerians and members of the creative industry to honour Ogogo by preserving the cultural values and artistic traditions he dedicated his life to.
Before becoming famous, Ogogo worked as a mechanic at the Ogun State Water Corporation for about 13 years. He began acting in 1981 and left the job in 1994 to pursue acting full-time.
Ogogo died on Sunday aged 66 after battling stage-four cancer. His remains were taken to Ilaro, Ogun State, and buried on Monday according to Islamic rites.
