Ogogo was cultural ambassador who elevated Yoruba traditions, values – Gani Adams

The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has described the late Taiwo Hassan, widely known as Ogogo, as a cultural ambassador who used his craft to celebrate and elevate Yoruba traditions and values.

In a statement on Monday, Adams said Ogogo was a brilliant and veteran actor whose contributions to the Yoruba film industry were remarkable and enduring. 

He expressed profound sorrow and heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and fans of the late veteran actor, Alhaji Hassan, following his untimely death. 

“I condole with his family, the people of Ilaro and Ogun State, members of Theatre Arts & Motion Picture Practitioners Association of Nigerian (TAMPAN) and his fans across the world,” he said.

Ogogo passed away on August 23, 2026, at the age of 66 after a courageous battle with stage-four cancer, leaving a significant void in the Nigerian entertainment industry and the Yoruba cultural community.

Iba Adams highlighted Ogogo’s dedication to the promotion and preservation of Yoruba heritage through his exceptional performances, which endeared him to audiences across Nigeria and beyond. 

The Aare Ona Kakanfo commended Ogogo’s professionalism, versatility, and unwavering commitment to the arts. 

He noted that the late actor’s legacy would continue to inspire generations of actors and theater practitioners who look up to him as a role model. 

“Ogogo’s life and work exemplify the spirit of Yoruba artistry and the power of storytelling to unite and uplift our people.

“His oratory in chanting Yoruba poetry (ewi and ijala) to promote culture was impeccable. Throughout his life time, he also had no scandal,” Iba Gani Adams stated.

In his message of condolence, the Aare Ona Kakanfo also extended his sympathies to the entire Yoruba film industry and all theater practitioners who have lost a cherished colleague and friend. 

He acknowledged the pain and grief that the entertainment community is experiencing and urged them to remain resilient in the face of this loss. 

He emphasised the importance of unity and collective prayer to seek divine intervention against the recurrence of such sad incidents in the future.

Iba Adams called on Yoruba sons and daughters to come together in solidarity, offering prayers for the repose of Ogogo’s soul and for strength and comfort to his family during this difficult time. 

He expressed hope that the Almighty would grant eternal rest to the departed actor and provide solace to all who mourn him.

“The late Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, was a towering figure in the Nigerian film industry, especially within the Yoruba-language cinema. 

“His career spanned several decades, during which he delivered memorable performances that left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. Ogogo’s work not only entertained but also educated and preserved the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.

“Throughout his career, Ogogo was celebrated for his ability to portray a wide range of characters with depth and authenticity. His dedication to his craft earned him respect and admiration from colleagues, critics, and fans alike. Beyond his artistic talents, he was known for his humility, kindness, and mentorship of younger actors, helping to nurture the next generation of Yoruba film stars,” the statement added.