The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has paid tribute to the late veteran actor, Alhaji Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, describing him as a true cultural ambassador who dedicated his life to promoting and preserving Yoruba heritage.

Ogogo passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at the age of 66 following a battle with stage-four cancer. His death has sparked widespread mourning across the Nigerian entertainment industry and the global Yoruba community.

In a condolence statement issued on Monday, and made available to Blueprint.ng, Gani Adams expressed deep sorrow over the actor’s passing, describing it as a monumental loss to the cultural and film landscapes. 

He lauded Ogogo’s artistic versatility, professionalism, and mastery of traditional Yoruba poetic chants, including Ewi and Ijala, which he used to educate and unite audiences throughout his multi-decade career.

“I condole with his family, the people of Ilaro and Ogun State, members of the Theatre Arts & Motion Picture Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), and his fans across the world. 

“Ogogo’s life and work exemplify the spirit of Yoruba artistry and the power of storytelling to unite and uplift our people,” Adams noted, adding that the late actor maintained an impeccable, scandal-free reputation throughout his public life”, he said. 

The Aare Ona Kakanfo therefore, called for prayers for the repose of Ogogo’s soul and for fortitude for his family during this period of grief.

An indigene of Ilaro, Ogun state, Ogogo was a cornerstone of Yoruba cinema, widely revered for his compelling screen presence, humility, and dedication to mentoring emerging talent. 

His legacy remains an enduring benchmark for future generations of Nigerian theater practitioners.

He has since been buried, according to Islamic rites on Monday August 24, 2026.