Nollywood Mourns: Final Curtain Falls as Veteran Actor Taiwo Hassan ‘Ogogo’ is Laid to Rest

 

The Nigerian entertainment space has been plunged into deep mourning following the passing of one of its most towering pillars, Alhaji Taiwo Hassan, fondly known to millions globally as Ogogo. The legendary Yoruba-language cinema star passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at the age of 66.

According to industry sources, the actor closed his eyes for the last time after a brave, quiet battle with stage-four cancer. His death came just days after his daughters, Kira and Lima Taiwo, made an emotional public appeal for medical support, which had quickly rallied colleagues and fans to his side.

Laid to Rest in Ilaro

In accordance with Islamic rites, the iconic actor was laid to rest on Monday, August 24, 2026, in his ancestral hometown of Ilaro, Ogun State.

The funeral drew a massive crowd of grieving family members, close friends, Nollywood veterans, and residents who gathered at the Asade Agunloye Pavilion Ground to perform the Janazah burial rites. Industry heavyweights like Yinka Quadri and Dele Odule have since paid emotional tributes, describing him as a man who commanded the screen with unmatched poise and moral authority. 

From a Water Corporation Mechanic to Cinema Stardom

Ogogo’s journey to becoming a household name is a true testament to passion and dedication. Before dominating television screens, he actually worked as a mechanic with the Ogun State Water Corporation for roughly 13 years. [1]

He combined his corporate job with stage acting until 1994, when he took the bold leap to pursue acting full-time. Over a career spanning four decades, he became a cultural institution, eventually starring in modern global masterpieces like Aníkúlápó. 

The team at GBEDUCITY extends our deepest condolences to the Hassan family and the entire Nollywood fraternity.