‘We did everything possible to save him’ — Yayi mourns Ogogo

The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in Ogun State, Solomon “Yayi” Adeola, has mourned veteran Nollywood actor Taiwo “Ogogo” Hassan, recalling the efforts made to save him during his battle with stage-four cancer.

Yayi, the senator representing Ogun West Senatorial District, was one of the major financiers of the actor’s treatment during his illness. Ogogo’s daughter, Kira, had publicly acknowledged the senator’s support days before the actor’s death, saying he had been footing the medical bills while the family searched for further treatment options.

In a tribute issued after Ogogo’s death, the politician said he and those around the actor had done everything humanly possible to secure the medical care he needed.

The 57-year-old said: “During those difficult moments, we stood closely with him and his family, supporting his treatment and doing everything humanly possible to ensure that he received the necessary medical care.

“We remained hopeful and prayerful that he would overcome the illness and return to the family, friends and countless admirers who cherished him. Sadly, despite all efforts, it has pleased Almighty God to call him home. Indeed, God knows best.”

Painful

Furthermore, Yayi described Ogogo’s death as painful, especially after the veteran actor’s courageous battle with illness and the collective hope and prayers for his recovery throughout his treatment.

He said Ogogo was not only an accomplished veteran of the entertainment industry but also a dear brother and a proud son of Ilaro, Ogun State.

Yayi added that the 66-year-old actor’s remarkable career brought joy to generations of Nigerians and contributed significantly to the growth and development of the Nigerian film industry.

“His talent, humility and enduring body of work will ensure that his memory lives on. At this extremely difficult time, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children and entire family, the good people of Yewaland and Ogun State, his colleagues and associates in the entertainment industry, and everyone whose life he touched.

“We share in their grief over this sad and irreplaceable loss. We pray that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings, accepts his good deeds, grants him Al-Jannah Firdaus, and gives his family and all of us who mourn him the strength and fortitude to bear this painful loss.”

Backstory

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that Ogogo died on Sunday after battling stage-four cancer. His family subsequently buried him at his residence in Ilaro, Ogun State.

Since his death was announced and his burial held, Ogogo’s colleagues, friends, associates and fans have continued to mourn him, remembering his kindness and describing him as a man who brought joy to those around him and touched many lives.

Ogogo began his acting career in 1981 while working as a mechanic. He later left his job with the water corporation in 1994 to pursue acting as a full-time career.

Before his death, Ogogo appeared in numerous films, including “Atitebi”, “Agbelebu”, “Agbo-Odaju”, “Danfo Driver”, “Owo Blow”, “Amerah”, “Aníkúlápó”, “Bank Alert”, “IGE” and “Aníkúlápó: Rise of the Spectre”, among others.