Video throwback: Late actor Ogogo led Hubert Ogunde’s burial procession in 1990

A recently resurfaced video offers a poignant glimpse into Nigeria's rich theatrical history, capturing a young Taiwo Hassan, later known as the beloved actor Ogogo, leading chants during the 1990 burial procession of the pioneering theatre practitioner Hubert Ogunde.

The footage, shared by Yemi King and originating from the Ogunde Museum, shows the Association of Nigeria Theatre Arts Practitioners performing during the lying in state at the National Arts Theatre in Lagos. In the clip, Ogogo, who would become a recognizable face in Yoruba-language cinema, fulfills the traditional role of a chanter, eulogizing Ogunde while I-Show Pepper leads the dirge and procession.

Hubert Ogunde, widely regarded as a pioneer of Nigerian theatre and a key figure in Yoruba theatre development, passed away in London on April 4, 1990. The video, recorded in May of that year, serves as a historical document of the respect and tradition within the Nigerian arts community.

Tragically, Taiwo Hassan, or Ogogo, himself passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at the age of 66. His death followed a public disclosure that he was battling stage-four cancer. Ogogo was laid to rest in his hometown of Ilaro, Ogun State, on August 24, following Islamic rites. His career spanned decades, cementing his legacy in Yoruba-language films and his contributions to preserving Yoruba culture.