Nigerian actor Taiwo Hassan dies at 66 after cancer battle

Veteran Nigerian actor Taiwo Hassan, widely known by his stage name Ogogo, died on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at the age of 66 following a battle with stage four cancer. His death was confirmed by his family and colleagues, marking the end of a celebrated career that spanned over four decades in Yoruba-language cinema and the broader Nigerian film industry.

Hassan passed away at approximately 3 p.m. on Sunday in Lagos. His death came just over a week after his daughters had publicly disclosed his diagnosis and appealed for access to specialist medical care. The family had earlier dismissed a false report of his death on August 18. According to associates, funeral arrangements were made swiftly, and his remains were transported to his hometown of Ilaro in Ogun State on Sunday evening.

He was buried on Monday, August 24, in Ilaro in accordance with Islamic rites. The Ilaro Chief Imam announced that funeral prayers were held at the Asade Agunloye Pavilion at 10 a.m. Prominent figures from the entertainment industry, including actors Jide Kosoko, Yinka Quadri, Faithia Williams, Femi Adebayo, and Dele Odule, attended the burial to pay their respects.

Born on October 31, 1959, in Ilaro,...