By Segun Adebayo
The death of veteran Yoruba actor, Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, has, no doubt, left the Nigerian entertainment industry in mourning.
Ogogo died in the early hours of Sunday after battling stage-four cancer, bringing to an end the life and career of one of the most respected figures in the Yoruba film industry.
As colleagues, friends, fans and family members mourn the veteran actor, here are 10 things you may not know about the late Ogogo.
1. He was from Ilaro, Ogun State
Ogogo was an indigene of Ilaro in Ogun State, the community where he will be laid to rest following his death.
His remains are expected to leave for Ilaro tonight ahead of his burial scheduled for Monday.
2. He was a twin
Ogogo was born a twin, with his twin brother, Kehinde Hassan, surviving him.
His family also had a remarkable history of twins, a detail the actor spoke about during his lifetime.
3. He was once an automobile mechanic
Long before he became a household name in Nollywood, Ogogo worked as an automobile mechanic.
He later worked with the Water Corporation before eventually leaving formal employment to pursue his passion for acting full-time.
4. He started acting in 1981
Ogogo began his acting career in 1981 and went on to build a career spanning more than four decades.
Through the years, he became one of the most recognisable faces in Yoruba-language cinema, featuring in numerous films and mentoring younger practitioners.
5. He was a major figure in the Odunfa Caucus
Ogogo was closely associated with the Odunfa Caucus, a theatre and film group that played a significant role in the development of Yoruba cinema.
He and veteran actor Yinka Quadri were among the key figures behind the group more than two decades ago, helping to create a platform where young talents could learn and develop their craft.
6. The Odunfa Caucus produced several stars
The influence of the Odunfa Caucus went beyond its founding members, with several actors who became major stars emerging from its fold.
Among those associated with the group are Funke Akindele, Faithia Balogun and Madam Saje, among others.
7. Yinka Quadri was more than a colleague
Ogogo shared a deep and longstanding relationship with Yinka Quadri.
Their friendship and professional partnership stretched back decades, with the two becoming important figures in the growth of Yoruba theatre and cinema.
Following Ogogo’s death, Quadri is among the colleagues said to be deeply devastated by the loss.
8: His final moments were with his family
In his final moments, Ogogo was surrounded by members of his family, including his eldest children.
In what has now become his final message to them, the veteran actor urged his children to remain united and ensure that the family stayed together.
9. He will be buried in Ilaro
Ogogo’s final journey will take him back to Ilaro, his hometown.
His remains are expected to leave for Ilaro tonight, while his burial prayer is scheduled for 11am on Monday at the Asade Agunloye Pavilion Ground.
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