Nigeria: Atiku Mourns Ogogo, Says Actor's Death Leaves 'Painful Void' in Nollywood

What the report says

Former Nigerian Vice-President and African Democratic Congress presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has expressed condolences over the death of veteran Nollywood actor Taiwo Hassan, widely known as Ogogo. According to Vanguard’s report carried by AllAfrica, Atiku said the actor’s passing was deeply saddening and described it as a loss for Nigeria’s creative community.

Hassan died on Sunday at the age of 66 after battling cancer. The article says his family had recently disclosed that he was living with stage-four cancer and had asked for help as they explored treatment options. Atiku referenced the timing of the death, noting that the public had only recently learned of the actor’s illness.

In his tribute posted on X, Atiku praised Hassan’s long career in Yoruba-language Nollywood, saying he entertained many homes while also using storytelling to reflect society and encourage social renewal. He said the actor’s death has left a painful gap among fans, colleagues and the wider entertainment sector.

The report places Hassan among the notable figures in Nigerian film whose work shaped popular culture over many years. More broadly, it underscores how the loss of prominent entertainers can prompt national reflection on their cultural influence and the support available to artists facing serious illness.