Nollywood star Taiwo ‘Ogogo’ Hassan is dead

Veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, has died at the age of 66 after battling stage-four cancer.

His daughter, Kira Taiwo, announced his death on Sunday in an emotional social media broadcast, saying her father had passed away.

The development comes less than a week after the actor’s daughters, Kira and Lima, publicly appealed for urgent medical assistance for their father after revealing that he had been diagnosed with stage-four cancer.

The family had said they were seeking medical specialists and facilities capable of providing further treatment after his condition deteriorated.

Earlier on Aug. 18, the family had also dismissed reports that Ogogo had died, describing them as false.

Ogogo’s health situation subsequently attracted widespread attention, with colleagues and other figures in the Yoruba film industry organising prayer sessions and offering support to the family.

Several prominent actors, including Jide Kosoko, Yinka Quadri, Antar Laniyan, Bukky Wright, Wale Elesho and Mr Latin, were among those who gathered for prayers for his recovery.

Born in Ilaro, Ogun State, Hassan built a career spanning several decades and became one of the most recognisable figures in Yoruba-language cinema.

He was known for his work as an actor, producer, director and screenwriter, earning the nickname Ogogo through his extensive career in the Nigerian film industry.

His death has prompted an outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues and other members of the entertainment industry, coming only days after Nigerians rallied around his family over his illness.

Details of his funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family.