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Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed grief over the death of veteran Yoruba actor, Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo.
Hassan died on Sunday at the age of 66 after battling stage-four cancer.
News of the actor’s death was announced by fellow veteran, Jide Kosoko, who disclosed that the late actor’s remains would be taken to Ilaro, Ogun State, for a laying-in-state ceremony.
The ceremony is scheduled for Monday, August 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Pavilion in Ilaro.
Reacting to the development in a statement shared on X, Atiku described Ogogo’s death as deeply saddening, particularly coming shortly after the public learned about his health condition.
The former vice president said the actor’s passing represented a significant loss to Nigeria’s entertainment industry and the wider society.
Atiku noted that Ogogo’s influence extended beyond acting, as he used his career to entertain audiences while telling stories that reflected Nigerian society.
He said the veteran actor also contributed to social awareness and inspired audiences through his work over the years.
According to Atiku, Ogogo’s death has created “a painful void in Nigeria’s creative community” and among the millions of people who appreciated his contribution to Yoruba cinema.
He extended his condolences to the actor’s family, colleagues and admirers across Nigeria and beyond.
Atiku also prayed for the forgiveness of Ogogo’s shortcomings and asked Almighty Allah to grant him eternal rest in Al-Jannah Firdaus.
Ogogo was one of the most prominent figures in Yoruba cinema, with a career spanning more than four decades and over 300 film credits.
His death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, political figures and admirers who have continued to celebrate his impact on the Nigerian film industry.
