Ogogo’s Death, Great Loss To Nigeria, Says Hamzat

Lagos State deputy governor and the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate in the 2027 general elections, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has commiserated with the family, friends and colleagues of veteran Nollywood actor, screenwriter, producer and director, Taiwo Babatunde Hassan, popularly known as “Ogogo,” following his demise.

The deputy governor, in a statement issued yesterday, described the demise of the illustrious actor, who was widely celebrated for his decades-long contributions to the Yoruba-language film industry, as a painful and irreplaceable loss not only to his immediate family but to the entire country.

“On behalf of the Lagos State government and indeed in my personal capacity, I received the news of the passing of our dear brother, Taiwo Babatunde Hassan, fondly called Ogogo, with deep sorrow,” the deputy governor said.

“This is a great loss, not only to his family but to Nigeria as a whole. Ogogo was a cultural icon whose work spanned over four decades and helped shape and popularise Yoruba cinema, both locally and on the global stage.”

Hamzat noted that the late actor’s legacy would continue to live on through the numerous films, performances, and creative works he left behind, which he said had entertained, educated, and inspired generations of Nigerians.

“Ogogo was more than an entertainer; he was a custodian of our culture and tradition, who used his craft to project the rich heritage of the Yoruba people to the world. His versatility as an actor, producer, screenwriter, and director set him apart as one of the pillars of the Nigerian movie industry,” he added.

The Deputy Governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the wives, children, and entire family of the deceased, as well as to his colleagues in the Yoruba film industry and the larger Nollywood community, praying that God would grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

“I pray that the Almighty God grants his soul eternal rest and grants his family, friends, and admirers the strength to bear this huge loss,” Dr Hamzat said.

While commending the resilience and courage the actor and his family displayed during his illness, the Deputy Governor described it as a testament to their strength of character. He therefore wished the Nigerian entertainment industry continued growth and prayed that the legacy of the late thespian would continue to inspire upcoming talents in the sector.

Ogogo was a prominent figure in the Yoruba film industry and was widely recognised for his contributions to Nollywood over several decades.

He died last Sunday at the age of 66 after battling cancer.

His daughter, Kira Taiwo, confirmed his death during a live video, where she broke down in tears and repeatedly said, “My daddy is dead.”