Tears flowed in Ilaro, Ogun State, on Monday as veteran Nollywood actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, was laid to rest. There was an outpouring of grief from relatives, colleagues and fans.
According to The Punch, family members, friends and leading figures in the Yoruba film industry gathered in the actor’s hometown to pay their final respects to the 66-year-old. He died on Sunday after battling stage-four cancer.
Yinka Quadri breaks down at burial
One of the most emotional moments of the ceremony came when Ogogo’s longtime friend and colleague, Yinka Quadri, broke down in tears. This happened as the actor’s remains were carried towards his final resting place.
Footage from the funeral showed Quadri crying uncontrollably while mourners around him attempted to console him.
The emotional scene highlighted the bond between the two veteran actors. Their friendship stretched back several decades and survived a highly publicised disagreement. Eventually, they reconciled.
Other Nollywood stars who gathered in Ilaro included Jide Kosoko, Faithia Balogun, Femi Adebayo, Mr Latin, Toyosi Adesanya, Ireti Osayemi and Bisi Omo Logbalogba.
Family, colleagues bid Ogogo farewell
Ogogo’s remains were taken through the funeral procession before he was buried in accordance with Islamic rites.
Actor Bola Oyin-Adejobi also paid tribute to the late performer ahead of the burial. He prayed that he would be granted Al-Jannah Firdaus.
The burial came a day after Ogogo’s remains were transported to Ilaro following his death at about 3pm on Sunday.
Jide Kosoko had earlier announced plans for a lying-in-state ceremony. Meanwhile, the Ilaro Muslim Community made arrangements for the funeral prayers.
Final battle with cancer
Ogogo’s death came days after his daughters, Kaira and Lima Taiwo, publicly appealed for urgent medical assistance for their father.
The family revealed that he was battling stage-four cancer and was seeking specialists who could explore further treatment options.
Their appeal triggered widespread concern across the entertainment industry, with actors and fans rallying around the family.
Despite the efforts to secure further medical intervention, the veteran actor died on Sunday at the age of 66.
Four decades of Yoruba cinema
Ogogo built a career spanning more than four decades and became one of the most recognisable figures in Yoruba-language cinema.
Known for his commanding screen presence, traditional chants and portrayals of strong authority figures, he appeared in hundreds of productions. He influenced generations of actors who followed him into the industry.
His passing has drawn tributes from entertainers, government officials and fans. Many have described his death as a major loss to Nollywood and Yoruba cultural storytelling.
Monday’s burial brought many of those who worked alongside him together for a final farewell. The veteran actor was laid to rest in the town where his journey began.
