Nollywood is mourning the death of veteran Yoruba actor, filmmaker and screenwriter Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, who has died at the age of 66 after battling stage-four cancer.

Hassan died on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at about 3:00 p.m. His death was confirmed by his daughter, Kira Taiwo, during an emotional social media livestream, while veteran actor Jide Kosoko also announced the actor’s death and burial arrangements.

The news comes just days after Hassan’s daughters, Kira and Lima Taiwo, publicly revealed that their father was suffering from stage-four cancer and appealed to medical professionals and hospitals for assistance. The family had been seeking further treatment as his condition became increasingly serious.

A career spanning more than four decades

Born on October 31, 1959, in Ilaro, Ogun State, Taiwo Hassan built a career spanning more than four decades and became one of the most recognisable figures in Yoruba-language cinema.

Before becoming an actor, Hassan trained as an automobile mechanic and worked with the Lagos State Water Corporation for about 13 years. He eventually left the job to pursue acting professionally.

His career saw him work as an actor, producer, director and screenwriter, contributing to both Yoruba and English-language Nollywood productions.

The legacy of ‘Ogogo’

Hassan became widely known by his nickname Ogogo, a name that became synonymous with veteran Yoruba cinema.

Over the years, he appeared in numerous productions, including Owo Blow, Omo Ghetto and Aníkúlápó, among many others. His commanding screen presence and distinctive performances made him a respected figure among audiences and fellow actors.

His influence extended beyond individual performances. He was regarded as one of the veteran figures who helped establish and sustain the Yoruba film industry across multiple generations.

Following news of his death, tributes poured in from across Nollywood. Femi Adebayo Salami described Hassan as a pillar of Yoruba cinema whose impact would continue across generations, while other veterans including Jide Kosoko and Yinka Quadri joined the growing tributes.

Burial arrangements

According to the announcement by Jide Kosoko, Hassan’s remains were taken to his hometown of Ilaro, Ogun State, following his death.

His lying-in-state ceremony is scheduled for Monday, August 24, with Islamic burial rites to follow in accordance with his faith.

Taiwo Hassan leaves behind a legacy that stretches across generations of Nigerian cinema. From his early days away from the entertainment industry to becoming one of Yoruba Nollywood’s most recognisable veterans, Ogogo’s contribution to Nigerian film will remain an important part of the country’s cinematic history.

Taiwo Hassan ‘Ogogo’ was 66. May his soul rest in perfect peace.