Tinubu Mourns Taiwo Hassan ‘Ogogo’: ‘His Death Is A Great Loss To Nigeria

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commiserated with the family, friends and colleagues of veteran Nollywood actor, filmmaker and screenwriter Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, following his death.

The President’s condolence message was contained in a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

Tinubu described Ogogo as a distinguished actor whose decades-long career contributed significantly to the development of Yoruba-language theatre and Nigerian cinema.

According to the President, Ogogo’s unique acting style, commanding screen presence and commitment to his craft earned him the admiration of generations of Nigerians while helping to showcase Yoruba culture and the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Tinubu noted that the late actor’s extensive body of work would remain an important part of Nigeria’s cultural history. He also highlighted Ogogo’s mentorship and influence on younger artistes as key aspects of his enduring legacy in the creative industry.

The President said:

“Alhaji Taiwo Hassan was a gifted artiste who used his talent to tell Nigerian stories, preserve our cultural heritage and entertain audiences at home and abroad.

“His passing is a great loss to his family, the Yoruba film industry, Nollywood and the entire Nigerian creative community.

“On behalf of the Federal Government, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, friends and millions of admirers. I pray that Almighty Allah will grant him eternal rest and give his loved ones the strength to bear this irreparable loss.”

Tinubu also called on members of the creative industry and Nigerians at large to keep Ogogo’s legacy alive by preserving and promoting the cultural values and artistic traditions to which he dedicated his life.

He prayed for the peaceful repose of the late actor’s soul.

Before becoming a household name in Nollywood, Ogogo worked as a mechanic with the Ogun State Water Corporation for about 13 years. He began his acting career in 1981 while still working as a mechanic before eventually leaving the job in 1994 to pursue acting professionally.