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The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade I, has commiserated with the family of veteran Nollywood actor, Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, describing his death as a painful loss to the Yoruba cultural community and Nigeria’s entertainment industry. The monarch described Ogogo’s life as that of a fallen great tree whose roots and fruits would continue to nourish generations to come, adding that although the drumbeat of his life had stopped, the rhythm of his wisdom and art would echo through time. In a condolence message issued by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the monarch noted that a true custodian of Yoruba heritage had gone to rest, adding that while the light of a single brilliant flame had faded, its glow would remain in the collective history of the people. Oba Owoade said Ogogo’s remarkable career entertained generations while showcasing and preserving the rich cultural values of the Yoruba people on stage and screen. The monarch added that the late actor’s commitment to theatre, Yoruba culture and the wider entertainment industry had left an enduring mark on Nigeria’s creative landscape.
He also sympathised with the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) over the death of one of its notable members, describing the actor’s passing as a painful loss to the association, the creative industry and the nation. While commiserating with the bereaved family, Oba Owoade said Nigerians should mourn the loss of a rare cultural pillar while celebrating an immortal legacy that would continue to shape their identity. “The world lost a giant, whose spirit lives on in every life he inspired.
An irreplaceable voice has gone quiet, but the echo of his art would ring through generations. You carried our history and our pride with grace. “We mourn the loss of a rare cultural pillar, yet we celebrate an immortal legacy that will forever shape our identity.”
Taiwo Hassan died at the age of 66 on Sunday, August 23, 2026, following a battle with stage-four cancer.
His death was confirmed by his family, prompting an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, fans and cultural figures across the country. Also reacting to the news, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, on Monday expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the renowned Nigerian movie star. Musawa, in a statement made available to Nigerian Tribune, described Chief Hassan as a towering figure in the Nigerian film industry. She noted his discipline, talent, and dedication, through which he helped to shape Nollywood and inspire generations of actors, directors, and producers.
“Ogogo was not just a star on our screens. He was a custodian of our culture, a proud voice of Yoruba storytelling, and a man who dedicated his life to building the Nigerian creative industry.
For many years, he made us laugh, made us think, and made us proud of who we are as Nigerians. ALSO READ: We tried our best to save Ogogo — Senator Yayi
“He brought Yoruba culture and cinema to millions across Nigeria and beyond, and he was a source of pride for the Nigerian creative economy. “His works celebrated our heritage and projected the richness of our traditions to the world. The industry has lost a giant, but his legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched and the films he left behind. “On behalf of the Ministry, the entire creative community, and stakeholders across the arts and culture sector, the Minister extends heartfelt condolences to the family of Chief Taiwo Hassan, his colleagues in Nollywood, his fans, and the people of Ogun State.”
The Minister also prayed that the Almighty grants his family and the entire film industry the fortitude to bear this great loss, and that his soul rests in perfect peace.
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