Ace actor Ogogo buried, Tinubu, Abiodun mourn

The Nigerian film industry mourns the loss of veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, widely known as Ogogo, who was laid to rest in Ilaro, Ogun State. The interment saw a large gathering of Nollywood stars, industry leaders, and government officials, including Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasiu Isiaka.

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We are here this morning to join the family, friends, and indeed the whole of Nigeria to mourn the demise of Mr Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, a true icon, a proud Yoruba man, somebody that you are always proud to associate with and say this indeed is my brother.

President Bola Tinubu paid tribute to Hassan, describing him as a distinguished artiste whose career significantly shaped Yoruba-language theatre and Nigerian cinema. In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu noted that Hassan entertained Nigerians for decades with his unique acting style and screen presence. The President emphasized the actor's dedication to his craft and his role in promoting the richness of Yoruba culture and Nigeria's diverse heritage.

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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.

Tinubu stated that Hassan's body of work constitutes an important part of Nigeria's cultural history. He also acknowledged the actor's mentorship of younger artists, highlighting his enduring legacy in the creative industry. "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," the President said. He extended condolences to Hassan's family, colleagues, and admirers, praying for his eternal rest.

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His passing is a great loss to his family, the Yoruba film industry, Nollywood and the entire Nigerian creative community.

Governor Abiodun, speaking at the Muslim prayers, described Hassan as an exceptional and iconic theatre practitioner whose death was deeply felt. He celebrated Hassan as a proud Yoruba man and an individual who inspired pride. "Today, we are mourning him, and I believe that we are all learning from him," Abiodun remarked, recalling a recent visit from the actor to his office. The governor urged attendees to learn from Hassan's life and legacy, emphasizing his significance beyond his artistic achievements.

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On behalf of the Federal Government, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, friends and millions of admirers.