Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s government of Lagos State Government has mourned the death of veteran Nollywood actor and cultural icon, Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo.
Ogogo’s death was announced on Sunday on Instagram by Regina Chukwu.
Also, the actor’s daughter Kira Hassan, in a Tiktok live session, announced his death.
Joining thousands of Nigerians in mourning, the Lagos State government described the actor’s death as a great loss to the Nigerian creative and cultural industry.
The condolence message was issued through the state’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Naija News reports.
The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, described the late actor as a gifted storyteller and cultural ambassador who used his career to preserve and promote Yoruba heritage.
According to her, Ogogo’s impact went beyond his performances in films and theatre, as he helped introduce generations of Nigerians and audiences around the world to Yoruba traditions, values and cultural expressions.
“Taiwo Hassan was more than an actor. He was a custodian of culture, a gifted storyteller and a proud ambassador of Yoruba heritage.
“Through his remarkable career, he entertained generations while showcasing and preserving the rich cultural values of the Yoruba people on stage and screen,” she said.
The commissioner said Ogogo’s dedication to theatre, Yoruba culture and the entertainment industry had left a lasting mark on the creative sector in Lagos and Nigeria.
She added that the deceased’s records would continue to inspire young actors, filmmakers and other professionals in the industry.
“He dedicated many years to the promotion of Yoruba culture, theatre and the entertainment industry. His contributions to the creative sector helped shape the cultural landscape of Lagos State and Nigeria, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come,” Benson-Awoyinka stated.
Benson-Awoyinka extended the ministry’s condolences to Hassan’s family, friends, colleagues and members of the wider Nollywood and creative arts community.
She said the actor’s death would be deeply felt by those who experienced his talent, passion and warmth during his lifetime.
“His departure is a great loss to the creative and cultural community. We pray that Almighty God grants his soul eternal rest and gives his family, friends, colleagues and loved ones the strength and fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss,” she said.
The ministry also urged members of the creative industry and admirers of Ogogo’s work to continue drawing inspiration from his dedication to his craft and his efforts to promote Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.