Veteran Nollywood actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, has died at the age of 66 after a prolonged illness.
The death of the celebrated Yoruba actor was confirmed on Sunday, August 23, 2026, after his family and colleagues shared news of his passing. His daughter, Kira Taiwo, confirmed the development during an emotional social media appearance.
Ogogo’s death comes only days after his family appealed for medical assistance as his health condition deteriorated. His daughters had disclosed that the actor was battling stage-four cancer and sought help from medical professionals and healthcare facilities.
The family had explained that doctors had informed them that chemotherapy could no longer be administered, prompting them to explore other possible treatment options. The situation generated widespread concern among fans, colleagues and well-wishers, with members of the Nigerian entertainment industry also organising prayers for the veteran actor.
Born on October 31, 1959, in Ilaro, Ogun State, Taiwo Hassan built an impressive career spanning more than four decades. He became one of the most recognisable faces in Yoruba-language cinema and was known to millions of viewers by his stage name, Ogogo.
Before becoming a full-time actor, Hassan trained and worked as an automobile mechanic. He was also employed by the Lagos State Water Corporation for several years while pursuing acting on the side.
He began his acting career in 1981 and gradually established himself in the Yoruba theatre and film industry. His distinctive acting style and commanding performances helped him become one of the respected veterans of Nigerian indigenous cinema.
Over the years, Ogogo appeared in numerous Yoruba films and became particularly associated with strong and authoritative characters. His career also extended beyond acting, as he worked in areas including film production and direction.
His work eventually reached younger audiences through productions such as Aníkúlápó, where he played a notable role in the popular Nigerian film. His performance earned him a nomination for Best Supporting Actor at the 2023 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards.
Ogogo’s contribution to Yoruba cinema went beyond his performances on screen. He was regarded as one of the actors who helped promote Yoruba language, culture and storytelling through film.
His passing has triggered an outpouring of grief across Nigeria, particularly among members of the Yoruba entertainment community. Fellow actors and public figures have paid tribute to the veteran, describing his death as a major loss to the creative industry and his family.
The news also comes shortly after earlier reports concerning his health had generated public concern. His family had previously appealed for assistance and clarified the seriousness of his condition.
Following his death, funeral arrangements were announced in his hometown of Ilaro. A burial prayer was scheduled to take place at the Asade Agunloye Pavilion Ground in Ilaro on Monday, August 24, 2026.
Taiwo Hassan leaves behind a legacy built through decades of work in Nigerian cinema. His journey from automobile mechanic to one of Yoruba film’s most respected veterans has made his career an inspiring story within the Nigerian entertainment industry.
As tributes continue to pour in, fans and colleagues are mourning the loss of an actor whose work helped shape and popularise Yoruba-language cinema for generations.
Source: Thepressradio.com
