Nollywood, Nigeria’s famous film industry, is in mourning after the passing of beloved veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, known as Ogogo. He died at the age of 66 after bravely battling cancer.

His daughter, Kira Hassan, shared the heartbreaking news during an emotional live stream on Instagram, where she expressed her deep sadness over losing her father.

Ogogo will be buried on Monday in his hometown in Ogun State, following Islamic customs, as confirmed by fellow actor Prince Jide Kosoko. Fans and colleagues are paying tribute to Ogogo, who was a cherished figure in Yoruba cinema.

Before rising to fame in the industry, Ogogo worked for 13 years as a mechanic at the Ogun State Water Corporation. He started acting in 1981 while still working as a mechanic, and he fully dedicated himself to acting in 1994.

Throughout his career, Ogogo received many awards and praise for his role in the film “Anikulapo,” where he played the famous Alaafin of Oyo, a revered king in Yoruba culture.

Reflecting on his death, actor Saidi Balogun shared a heartfelt tribute, referring to Ogogo as a brother and expressing his pain, saying, “You can rest now… This is truly painful.”

Femi Adebayo honored the late Ogogo, calling him a “true pillar of Yoruba cinema,” and emphasized that his impact will resonate for generations. He expressed his appreciation by saying, “Thank you for the years, the stories, the lessons, and the moments that made us fall in love with the craft of acting.”

Muyiwa Ademola described Ogogo death as “the end of an era,” acknowledging him as one of the biggest the Nigeria film industry ever produced.

Atiku Abubakar, a presidential candidate with the African Democratic Congress, extended his condolences, remarking: “Alhaji Taiwo Hassan was far more than just a talented actor. Throughout his remarkable career, he brought joy to countless families, shared narratives that reflected our society, and utilized his talents not only to entertain but also to educate and inspire change.”

Interestingly, contrary to popular belief, Ogogo did not select his renowned name from a character he portrayed in a film. Instead, it was a family title that he adopted as his stage name.

He clarified that he took on the name “Ogogo” long before he gained widespread recognition in the film industry.