Funke Akindele Faces Backlash Over Birthday Post on Ogogo’s Burial Day

Nollywood actress and filmmaker, Funke Akindele, has faced criticism and mixed reactions on social media after sharing a birthday message on Monday, the same day veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, was buried in Ilaro, Ogun State.

Akindele celebrated her birthday on Monday with a message expressing gratitude to God for another year and reflecting on her life and purpose.

In an Instagram post, the actress thanked God for His blessings and prayed for good health, longevity and continued fulfilment of her purpose.

“Today is my birthday. My heart is full of gratitude to God for all He has done, all He is doing, and all that is still to come,” she wrote.

She also prayed that her life would positively influence others and inspire people to pursue their dreams despite challenges.

“May my life remain a testimony, and may the way I live inspire others to believe, to dream and to keep going. Thank You, Lord. Happy birthday to me,” she added.

The post, however, attracted mixed reactions because it coincided with the burial of Ogogo, who died on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at the age of 66.

Ogogo, a respected figure in the Yoruba film industry, was buried in his hometown of Ilaro on Monday, following Islamic burial arrangements announced by his family and colleagues.

Some social media users criticised Akindele for publicly celebrating her birthday on a day when the Nigerian entertainment industry was mourning one of its veteran actors.

Others, however, defended the actress, arguing that her birthday and Ogogo’s burial were unrelated events and that celebrating her life did not necessarily amount to disrespect for the deceased.

The reactions have once again highlighted the differing expectations surrounding social media conduct during periods of public mourning, particularly within the entertainment industry.

Akindele has not indicated that her post was intended to comment on or overshadow Ogogo’s burial, and her message focused entirely on gratitude for her birthday and her personal aspirations.

Ogogo’s death has generated widespread tributes from colleagues, fans and prominent Nigerians, with many recognising his contribution to Yoruba-language theatre and Nollywood.