- Safiu Kehinde
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has mourned the de mise of veteran Nollywood actor, Alhaji Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo.
NPO Reported that Hassan, 66, died on Sunday after prolonged battle with stage-four cancer.
His tragic death was confirmed by his daughter, Kira Taiwo, while fellow veteran actor Jide Kosoko announced that his remains would be taken to Ilaro for burial according to Islamic rites.
Reacting in a condolence message, Abiodun described Ogogo’s passing as a painful loss to his family, Ilaro, Yewaland, Ogun State and Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Recall that the daughter of the late actor, Halimah Taiwo, had during her announcement of her father’s critical condition mentioned Adeola who, according to her, have been sponsoring Ogogo’s medical bill since his diagnosis.
Also reacting in the wake of Ogogo’s death, Adeola and his wife said they received the news with “profound sadness and a deep sense of loss.”
They maintained that the actor was not only a celebrated figure in the entertainment industry but also a dear brother and proud son of Ilaro.
Adeola and his wife recalled the efforts made during Ogogo’s illness, saying they stood by him and his family while supporting his treatment and exploring every possible means of securing the medical care he needed.
“We remained hopeful and prayerful that he would overcome the illness and return to the family, friends and countless admirers who cherished him. Sadly, despite all efforts, it has pleased Almighty God to call him home. Indeed, God knows best,” they stated.
According to reports, the governorship candidate had earlier intervened in efforts to secure specialist medical attention for the actor after news of his deteriorating health emerged.
Adeola contacted cancer specialists and assisted in efforts to facilitate treatment for the veteran actor.
He further described Hassan as a brother who believed in and worked for his cause and the interests of the people.
“I am greatly saddened by the death of a brother who believed and worked assiduously for my cause and the cause of our people.
“I sympathize with his immediate family for their efforts and struggles to keep the dearly departed alive following his illness. God knows best in all circumstances,” Adeola said.
Meanwhile, burial arrangements announced by the Ilaro Muslim Community indicated that the funeral prayer would be held at the Asade Agunloye Pavilion Ground in Ilaro at 10:00 a.m. today.
A separate announcement by veteran actor Jide Kosoko stated that a lying-in-state ceremony would take place at the Pavilion at 11:00 a.m.
The death of Ogogo has continued to generate tributes from colleagues, fans and public figures, with many recalling his decades-long contribution to Yoruba-language cinema and Nigerian entertainment.