Lagos mourns veteran actor Taiwo Hassan ‘Ogogo’

The Lagos State Government has mourned the death of veteran Nollywood actor, Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, describing him as a cultural icon and distinguished ambassador of Yoruba heritage.

The state Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture expressed condolences to the actor’s family, friends, colleagues and the wider Nollywood and creative arts community.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the state Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, said Hassan’s contributions to the entertainment industry went beyond acting.

“Taiwo Hassan was more than an actor. He was a custodian of culture, a gifted storyteller, and a proud ambassador of Yoruba heritage,” she said.

Benson-Awoyinka said the late actor entertained generations while helping to showcase and preserve Yoruba cultural values through his work on stage and screen.

“He dedicated many years to the promotion of Yoruba culture, theatre, and the entertainment industry. His contributions to the creative sector helped shape the cultural landscape of Lagos State and Nigeria, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come,” she added.

The commissioner said the ministry shared in the grief of Hassan’s family and the creative community, describing his death as a major loss to the cultural and entertainment sectors.

“We pray that Almighty God grants his soul eternal rest and gives his family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones the strength and fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss,” Benson-Awoyinka stated.

Ogogo died on Sunday evening after battling cancer, prompting an outpouring of tributes from Nigerians, including celebrities and politicians.

The actor, a prominent figure in Yoruba-language Nollywood, passed days after his daughters appealed publicly for medical assistance as he battled stage-four cancer.