Tributes and Tears Flow as Nollywood Legend Ogogo Is Buried in Ilaro Hometown

A heavy cloud of grief enveloped the ancient town of Ilaro in Ogun State as legendary Yoruba Nollywood actor Alhaji Taiwo Hassan, affectionately known as Ogogo, was laid to rest beside his mother’s grave following his passing at age 66.

The iconic movie star died on Sunday afternoon after a prolonged battle with stage-four cancer, bringing an end to a distinguished career spanning over four decades in Nigerian cinema. His death followed emotional public appeals by his daughters, Kaira and Lima, who sought alternative medical interventions after doctors indicated that chemotherapy could no longer be administered.

The final journey to his hometown began as mourners conveyed his remains to the Asade Agunloye Pavilion Ground, where the Ilaro Muslim Community conducted Islamic funeral prayers. A massive procession of fans, townspeople, and family members accompanied the vehicle through the streets of Oke Ila, where his body was interred beside his mother’s grave.

Distinguished Nollywood figures and long-time creative collaborators, including Yinka Quadri, Jide Kosoko, Fathia Balogun, Femi Adebayo, Bolaji Amusan (Mr. Latin), and Ireti Osayemi, gathered in Ilaro to bid their final farewells. Ogogo’s close friend Yinka Quadri was overcome with emotion, weeping openly as colleagues offered consolation. Fans and film industry stakeholders across the country continue to pay tribute to the late actor, celebrating his remarkable artistic legacy and contributions to African culture.