The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has described the late veteran actor, Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, as a cultural ambassador who used his craft to celebrate and promote Yoruba traditions and values.
Adams, in a statement on Monday, expressed profound sorrow over the death of the actor, describing him as a brilliant and versatile performer whose contributions to the Yoruba film industry would remain remarkable and enduring.
Hassan, who died on August 23, 2026, at the age of 66 after a battle with stage-four cancer, was widely celebrated for his contributions to Nigerian entertainment, particularly Yoruba-language cinema.
Adams condoled with the deceased’s family, friends, colleagues and fans, saying Ogogo’s death had created a significant void in the Nigerian entertainment industry and the Yoruba cultural community.
He said the late actor’s dedication to the promotion and preservation of Yoruba heritage was evident in his performances, which endeared him to audiences in Nigeria and beyond.
The Aare Ona Kakanfo also commended Ogogo’s professionalism, versatility and commitment to the arts, noting that his legacy would continue to inspire generations of actors and theatre practitioners.
“Ogogo’s life and work exemplify the spirit of Yoruba artistry and the power of storytelling to unite and uplift our people,” Adams said.
He also extended his condolences to members of the Yoruba film industry and theatre practitioners who, he said, had lost a cherished colleague and friend.
Adams urged members of the entertainment community to remain resilient in the face of the loss, while emphasising the importance of unity and collective prayers.
He called on Yoruba sons and daughters to come together in solidarity, pray for the repose of Ogogo’s soul and offer support to his family during the difficult period.
Reflecting on the actor’s career, Adams described Ogogo as a towering figure in the Nigerian film industry, particularly in Yoruba-language cinema.
He noted that the actor’s career spanned several decades, during which he delivered memorable performances that left an indelible mark on audiences.
According to him, Ogogo’s work went beyond entertainment, as it also contributed to the education of audiences and the preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage.
He added that the late actor was renowned for his ability to portray diverse characters with depth and authenticity, earning him the respect and admiration of colleagues, critics and fans.
“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.
Adams prayed that the Almighty would grant Ogogo eternal rest and give his family, colleagues and admirers the strength to bear the loss.