Tears flowed freely in Ilaro, Ogun State, on Monday as Nollywood legend Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, was laid to rest according to Islamic rites.
The 66-year-old actor, who died on Sunday after a battle with stage-four cancer, was buried in his hometown just a day after his passing. Family members, colleagues, friends and well-wishers gathered for the solemn ceremony that followed a lying-in-state.
One of the most emotional moments came when veteran actor Yinka Quadri, a longtime friend and colleague of the deceased, broke down in tears. Mourners quickly surrounded him, offering comfort as he struggled to contain his grief.
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Ogogo’s wife was also seen weeping openly. Women gathered around her in an effort to console her while the procession moved toward the final resting place.
Several prominent figures from the Yoruba film industry paid their last respects. Among those present were Jide Kosoko, Femi Adebayo, Faithia Balogun, Mr Latin, Ireti Osayemi, Bisi Omo Logbalogba and Toyosi Adesanya.
Actress Toyosi Adesanya, who trained under Ogogo, paid a heartfelt tribute to her late mentor.
“My late boss was a man of integrity. He’s an epitome of simplicity. He trained me out of chance,” she said.
She described him as one in a million.
“Ogogo is one in a million. We fondly call him Sir T, Omo Abuguloko… And I will never forget all his efforts. Whenever we had rehearsals, he treated everybody like his own children.”
Adesanya added that the late actor paved the way for many in the industry.
“Ogogo was the one who paved the way for so many actors. Ogogo is loved. Everybody loves him. My late boss, rest in the bosom of Allah. We love you.”
The burial drew a large crowd that included political figures and traditional rulers from Yewaland. The atmosphere remained heavy with emotion as colleagues reflected on the void left by a man widely regarded as a pillar of Yoruba cinema.
Ogogo’s career spanned more than four decades and over 300 films. His sudden exit has left the industry mourning a true legend whose influence continues to be felt by generations of actors he mentored and inspired.