The Lagos State Government has expressed grief over the death of veteran Nollywood actor and cultural icon, Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo.
The actor’s death was announced on Sunday by actress Regina Chukwu in an Instagram post. His daughter, Kira Hassan, also confirmed the news during a TikTok live session.
Reacting to the development, the Lagos State Government described Ogogo’s death as a major loss to Nigeria’s creative and cultural sector.
The condolence message was conveyed by the state’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, with the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, describing the late actor as a talented storyteller and strong advocate of Yoruba heritage.
Benson-Awoyinka said Ogogo’s contribution went beyond acting, noting that he played an important role in preserving and promoting Yoruba culture through theatre and film.
“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 noted that Ogogo devoted several years to theatre, Yoruba culture and the entertainment industry, leaving a significant impact on Lagos and Nigeria’s creative landscape.
She added that his body of work would continue to serve as an inspiration to young actors, filmmakers and other professionals in the creative 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.
The commissioner extended the ministry’s condolences to Ogogo’s family, friends, colleagues and members of the wider Nollywood and creative arts community.
She described his passing as a painful loss to the industry and prayed for strength for those mourning him.
“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 encouraged Ogogo’s admirers and members of the creative industry to preserve his legacy by drawing inspiration from his dedication to his craft and his commitment to promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
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