Nollywood Mourns As Colleagues Pay Tribute to 'Ogogo'

The Yoruba movie industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo.

The actor passed away on Sunday at 3:00 pm at the age of 66 after a battle with cancer, according to a statement on Instagram by his colleague, Prince Jide Kosoko. His remains will be taken to his hometown of Ilaro, Ogun State, where special prayers will be held at the pavilion on Monday at 11:00 am.

Tributes have since poured in from colleagues, friends, and fans.

Funke Akindele wrote, "hmmmmm sad!!! Rest in peace, sir T. Your impact on the film industry will never be forgotten. Thank you for the legacy you leave behind."

Femi Adebayo expressed deep sorrow, writing, "Haaa Sir T!! This one cuts deep! A true legend. A father. A pillar of our industry. Your legacy will continue to speak for generations. May Allah forgive your shortcomings and grant you Aljanah Firdaus. Ameen. Rest well, Sir Taiwo Hassan."

Wumi Toriola also paid tribute, writing, "Erin Wo Ha Sir T Odigbere Rest on Legend Oju ti owo."

Kunle Afod simply wrote, "Sir T Sun re oooo...... We love you But God loves you more." Lateef Adedimeji prayed, "Ya Allah we ask that you forgive the shortcomings of Alhaji Taiwo Hassan Ogoogo, have mercy on him, pardon his sins, illuminate his grave, and grant him Jannatul Firdaus without punishment. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un."

Femi Adebayo's father, Adebayo Salami wrote, "The action has ended, The Actor is no more. This hits home, this hits super hard. Omo kulodo... Erin wo!!! May Allah accept your return, Our dearest Ogogo." Iyabo Ojo wrote, "This hits differently. The industry lost a legend, but heaven gained an angel. My deepest condolences to his entire family. You were a great man, my Boss. Your legacy will never die. Adieu, o. Till we meet again."

The Nigerian Voice recalls that Ogogo's daughters, Lima and Kira Taiwo, had made an emotional appeal on Instagram last Monday, seeking help for their father's treatment after he was diagnosed with stage-four cancer. They had revealed that hospitals had refused to treat him and begged for anyone who could provide medical or spiritual assistance.

His close friend and colleague, Yinka Quadri, had also been deeply affected by his illness, staying in constant contact with the family and offering support.

Two days ago, several Yoruba actors had come together to offer prayers for his recovery before his passing on Sunday, which has since sent shockwaves across social media.