The Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and the Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has paid tribute to veteran Nollywood actor, Alhaji Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, following his death at the age of 66.
In a condolence message on Monday by the Senior Media Officer, Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the Ooni who is also the Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN) commiserated with the family of the deceased, the entire Nollywood industry, Yoruba actors and actresses, friends, associates and the millions of fans of the late thespian over the painful loss.
The Ooni described Ogogo as a legend of Yoruba cinema and an advocate of Yoruba culture, noting that his contributions went beyond entertainment to the preservation, promotion and projection of Yoruba language, traditions and values.
According to the Ooni, Ogogo belonged to a generation of artistes who used their talents to tell authentic Yoruba stories and bring the richness of the culture to audiences across Nigeria and beyond.
He said the late actor’s decades-long career and distinctive performances had earned him a lasting place in the history of Yoruba film and Nigerian entertainment.
“Ogogo was not merely an actor; he was an advocate of our culture. Through his craft, he promoted our language, traditions, values and identity. His contribution to Yoruba cinema will remain indelible,” the Ooni said.
The Ooni further noted that the passing of the veteran actor had created a significant vacuum in the creative industry, particularly within the Yoruba-language film sector, where Ogogo remained an influential figure for generations.
The Ooni urged members of the entertainment community and admirers of the late actor to take solace in the legacy he left behind and the impact of his works on Yoruba culture and Nigerian cinema.
He also commiserated with Ogogo’s wives, children and extended family, praying that Almighty Olodumare grant the deceased eternal rest and give the bereaved family, colleagues, friends and fans the fortitude to bear the loss.