Nigerians, celebrities and political figures have continued to mourn the death of veteran Yoruba actor, Alhaji Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, whose passing has left a deep void in the Nigerian film industry.
Ogogo, who died after a battle with stage-four cancer, was one of the most recognisable faces in Yoruba-language cinema. His career spanned more than four decades, during which he established himself as an accomplished actor, filmmaker and cultural figure.
The veteran actor began his acting career in 1981 while working as an auto mechanic at the Lagos State Water Corporation. He later left his other engagements to pursue acting fully in 1994.
He gained wider recognition following his appearance in Owo Blow, the 1996 home-video trilogy directed by Tade Ogidan. He subsequently featured in hundreds of films, earning admiration for his distinctive voice, commanding screen presence and memorable performances.
Beyond his acting, Ogogo became known for popularising several expressions and slangs that resonated with Nigerians, further cementing his place in popular culture.
Following news of his death, tributes poured in across social media as Nigerians recalled the impact of his performances on their childhood and the entertainment industry.
Senator Solomon ‘Yayi’ Adeola, who represents Ogun West in the National Assembly, described Ogogo as a brother who was committed to his cause and that of their people.
“I am greatly saddened by the death of a brother who believed and worked assiduously for my cause and the cause of our people,” Adeola said, while sympathising with the actor’s immediate family over the efforts made to keep him alive during his illness.
Another mourner, Akinwunmi, described the late actor as a man whose talent, laughter and presence brought joy to countless people.
“Tribute: A man whose talent, laughter and presence brought joy to countless people has left us with memories that will live on for generations,” he said.
He prayed that God would comfort Ogogo’s family, particularly his children, and give them the strength to bear the loss.
Other Nigerians also took to social media to remember the veteran actor, with many describing him as a legend who made their childhood memorable through his films.
One user wrote: “You gave your all. Did your best. Brought a lot of us happy moments on screen. You will never be forgotten.”
Another mourner recalled growing up watching Ogogo’s movies, describing him as “a true legend” who gave audiences many unforgettable memories.
Others remembered his distinctive voice and the popular character he portrayed in films, while fans described his death as the end of an era in Yoruba cinema.
The Ogun State Government also mourned the actor, describing his death as a monumental loss to the state, the Nigerian entertainment industry and the countless people who admired his work.
Ogogo’s death comes shortly after his family disclosed that he had been battling stage-four cancer and that his condition had become critical.
With his death, Nigeria has lost one of the veteran performers whose career helped shape and popularise Yoruba cinema for generations. His films, memorable expressions and distinctive acting style are expected to remain part of the country’s entertainment heritage.
He was 65.
