The Yoruba film industry on Monday bid farewell to veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, as his remains were buried in Ilaro, Ogun State, in accordance with Islamic rites.
The 66-year-old actor was laid to rest at about 10:50am after funeral prayers attended by his relatives, friends, colleagues, traditional chiefs and other sympathisers.
Ogogo’s remains arrived in Ilaro earlier in the morning, with several colleagues from the Yoruba movie industry travelling to his hometown to honour him.
Veteran actors Yinka Quadri and Jide Kosoko were among those present, while actress Ireti Osayemi Bakare also joined mourners at the Ilaro Central Mosque for the funeral prayers.
Family members and close associates had gathered from around 9am as preparations for the burial got underway.
The atmosphere was emotional as mourners paid their final respects to the actor, who made a significant impact on Yoruba-language cinema during his decades-long career.
After the prayers, Ogogo’s remains were taken to the burial ground, with members of his family, colleagues, friends and traditional chiefs accompanying the procession.
He was subsequently committed to the earth according to Islamic tradition.
The burial came a day after the actor’s death was announced following his reported battle with stage-four cancer.
Ogogo’s death occurred shortly after his daughters and management team disclosed his health condition and appealed for urgent medical assistance.
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The family had stressed that they were seeking medical intervention rather than financial donations, calling on medical professionals and hospitals with relevant expertise to assist.
One of his daughters had earlier revealed that the family only became aware of the severity of his condition about three weeks before his death and had faced difficulties securing appropriate treatment.
The appeal attracted widespread attention, with the actor’s management later saying more than 500 people had offered to help with his treatment.
However, Kosoko explained that the number of offers presented logistical challenges because Ogogo was already receiving treatment in a hospital.
He said the management had to determine the most suitable treatment option and how the actor could be safely moved without worsening his condition.