ILARO, NIGERIA — Veteran Nollywood actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, has been laid to rest in Ilaro, Ogun State.
The burial attracted family members, friends and colleagues from the Yoruba film industry. Among those present was veteran actor Yinka Quadri, whose emotional reaction drew attention during the ceremony.
Quadri was seen weeping as he mourned his longtime friend and colleague. The emotional moment reflected the deep bond shared by the two actors over several decades.
Ogogo died on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at the age of 66. His death came after a battle with stage-four cancer.
His family had earlier appealed for medical assistance. The appeal came after they disclosed the severity of his condition.
The actor had reportedly received hundreds of offers of medical, spiritual and other forms of assistance. Quadri had also spoken about the overwhelming support received from Nigerians and colleagues.
Despite the efforts to assist him, Ogogo died on Sunday afternoon. His death triggered an outpouring of grief across the Yoruba entertainment industry.
His remains were taken to his hometown, Ilaro, ahead of the burial rites. The town welcomed relatives, colleagues and admirers who gathered to pay their final respects.
The burial was conducted according to Islamic rites. The Ilaro Muslim Community announced that the burial prayer would take place at the Asade Agunloye Pavilion Ground.
The prayer was scheduled for 10 a.m. on Monday. A separate lying-in-state ceremony was also announced for the Pavilion.
Several prominent Nollywood personalities attended the ceremony. Yinka Quadri and Jide Kosoko were among the veteran actors who arrived in Ilaro to honour their late colleague.
Actress Ireti Osayemi was also reported to have arrived in the town. Their presence highlighted the impact Ogogo had on the Nigerian film industry.
Ogogo was one of the recognised faces of Yoruba-language cinema. His career spanned several decades.
He worked as an actor, filmmaker and director. He also became known for his distinctive performances in Yoruba films.
His contribution extended beyond acting. He was regarded as one of the figures who helped promote Yoruba culture through film and traditional performance.
Ogogo’s death has therefore left a significant gap in the Yoruba film community. Colleagues and fans have continued to share tributes following his passing.
For Quadri, the burial marked a painful farewell to a close friend. His tears captured the grief surrounding the loss of a colleague with whom he shared a long professional journey.
The two actors were among the respected veterans of Nigeria’s Yoruba movie industry. Their careers helped shape an era of Yoruba cinema that produced several enduring stars.
As mourners gathered in Ilaro, the atmosphere remained sombre. The burial provided an opportunity for Ogogo’s loved ones and colleagues to celebrate his life.
His final journey also brought together members of an entertainment community that had rallied around him during his illness.
Ogogo’s passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter. His films, performances and influence are expected to remain part of the legacy he leaves behind.
For many of his colleagues, however, Monday’s burial was more than a farewell to a veteran actor. It was an emotional goodbye to a friend, mentor and longtime member of the Yoruba film family.
