Tears as Nollywood Legend Ogogo Is Laid to Rest in Ilaro {Photos}

Tears and emotions ran high in Ilaro, Ogun State, on Monday as the remains of veteran Nollywood actor, Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, were laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites.

The 66-year-old actor, who died on Sunday after battling stage-four cancer, was buried in his hometown of Ilaro following a lying-in-state ceremony and funeral prayers attended by family members, friends, colleagues and sympathisers.

The burial attracted a large gathering of prominent figures in the Yoruba film industry, including veteran actors Yinka Quadri, Jide Kosoko, Femi Adebayo, Faithia Balogun, Mr Latin, Madam Saje, Toyosi Adesanya, Ireti Osayemi and Bisi Omo Logbalogba, among others.

The atmosphere became particularly emotional when Ogogo’s longtime friend and colleague, Yinka Quadri, broke down in tears as mourners attempted to console him. One of Ogogo’s wives was also seen crying and being consoled by women at the burial venue.

Ogogo’s remains were carried by mourners to the burial ground, marking the final stage of the funeral rites for the celebrated actor.

‘He paved the way for many’

Paying tribute to her late mentor, actress Toyosi Adesanya described Ogogo as a man of integrity, simplicity and exceptional generosity who played a significant role in shaping the careers of many actors.

Adesanya revealed that she began her training under Ogogo and other senior practitioners in 1994 through the Odunfa Caucus led by Yinka Quadri. She said she spent about 10 years undergoing training and rehearsals under their tutelage.

According to her, Ogogo treated his trainees like his own children and remained supportive throughout her career.

She recalled that when she produced her first movie in 2002, Ogogo and Yinka Quadri stood by her, describing the late actor as one of the major figures who paved the way for younger practitioners.

“Ogogo is one in a million,” she said, adding that his contribution to the industry would remain unforgettable.

Adesanya also prayed for the repose of his soul, saying, “My late boss, rest in the bosom of Allah. We love you.”

Lagos Government mourns

The Lagos State Government also mourned the death of the veteran actor, describing him as a cultural icon, gifted storyteller and ambassador of Yoruba heritage.

The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, said Ogogo’s contribution extended beyond acting, noting that he helped promote Yoruba culture, theatre and the Nigerian creative industry throughout his career.

She said his work entertained generations while helping to preserve and showcase Yoruba cultural values.

‘Life is too short’ — Ijebu

The death of Ogogo also prompted actor Amokade Olatayo, popularly known as Ijebu, to appeal for forgiveness from his family, colleagues and members of the public.

In an emotional message, Ijebu asked anyone he might have offended to forgive him, while also saying he had forgiven those who had offended him.

He said Ogogo’s death had reminded him of the brevity of life and the need for people to make peace rather than remain in conflict.

“We came to this world with nothing, and we will leave with nothing. We don’t have any reason to be fighting ourselves. Life is too short,” he said.

‘You will forever be Ogogo to us’ — Femi Adebayo

Nollywood actor Femi Adebayo has mourned the passing of veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, describing him as a pillar of Yoruba cinema.

Femi paid tribute to the veteran actor in a post shared on his Instagram account, reflecting on Ogogo’s years in the Nigerian film industry and the lasting impact of his work.

Femi wrote: “You were a true pillar of Yoruba cinema, and your impact will live on in generations to come.”

He described the late actor as someone whose contribution to Yoruba cinema would continue to be remembered by generations of actors, filmmakers and movie lovers.

He ended his tribute with a farewell to the veteran actor, saying: “Rest well, Sir Taiwo Hassan. You will forever be Ogogo to us. Adieu, legend.”

A career spanning over four decades

Ogogo was one of the most recognisable figures in Yoruba-language Nollywood, with a career spanning more than four decades. He featured in hundreds of films and was widely respected for his contribution to theatre and the Nigerian film industry.

His death came days after his daughters, Kaira and Lima Taiwo, appealed for financial and medical assistance for their father, who was battling stage-four cancer.

Kaira had disclosed that doctors could no longer administer chemotherapy because of his condition, prompting the family to explore other treatment options.

Ogogo’s passing has since triggered an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, government officials, fans and admirers across Nigeria.

For many who gathered in Ilaro on Monday, however, the burial was more than a farewell to an actor. It was a solemn celebration of the life, mentorship, cultural contribution and enduring legacy of a man who helped shape generations of Yoruba movie practitioners.