25/08/2026
REST IN PEACE OGOGO
Alhaji Taiwo Babatunde Al-Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, was a legendary veteran Nigerian actor, producer, and director who left an indelible mark on the Yoruba film industry. He passed away on August 23, 2026, at the age of 66, following a severe battle with stage-four cancer. Known for his deep understanding of Yoruba culture, commanding screen presence, and iconic action-packed protagonist roles, he was one of Nollywood’s most respected pioneers.
•Profile Overview
Full Name: Taiwo Babatunde Al-Hassan
Stage Name: Ogogo
Date of Birth: October 31, 1959
Date of Death: August 23, 2026 (Age 66)
Place of Birth: Ilaro, Ogun State, Nigeria
Nationality: Nigerian
Professions: Actor, Screenwriter, Film Producer, Director
•Early Life and Education
Taiwo Hassan was born into a family with a remarkable history of twins; both his father and grandfather were twins, and he himself had a twin brother named Kehinde Hassan. He was the only surviving child of four sets of twins born to his parents, Subair Akande Taiwo and Alimot Ayinke Taiwo.
He began his primary education at Christ Church School in Ilaro, Ogun State. He later moved to Lagos, where he attended Yaba Technical College (now Yaba College of Technology) and successfully trained as an automobile mechanic.
•Career Journey
Before diving fully into the entertainment industry, acting was a part-time passion for Hassan.
The Mechanic Era: In 1981, he secured a job as an auto-mechanic at the Lagos State Water Corporation. He worked there for about 13 years.
Theatrical Beginnings: He began acting part-time in 1981 under the tutelage of Awo Ademola Fagbemi. He made his official acting debut in 1982.Full-Time Nollywood: In 1994, he retired from his government job to focus completely on his filmmaking and acting career.
Over a career spanning more than four decades, Ogogo featured in and produced over 100 films. He became a household name for his versatility, distinct voice, and captivating lead roles in major Yoruba cinematic productions. He was later honored with the prestigious City People Movie Lifetime Achievement •Key Awards
Filmography
Some of his most famous and highly acclaimed films include:
Owo Blow, Omin, ObinrinSowanu, Okan Soso, Atitebi, Bolode o'ku, AnÃkúlápó (for which he received an AMVCA nomination)
•Personal Life and Health ChallengesTaiwo Hassan was a practicing Muslim and a polygamist, married to two wives (Ajoke and Taibat), and was a proud father and grandfather.
He faced severe health struggles during his lifetime. He previously survived a chronic illness in the mid-2000s that lasted for seven years. In August 2026, his daughters, Kira and Lima Taiwo, publicly revealed that he had been diagnosed with advanced stage-four cancer. Despite a massive outpouring of support, special prayers from his Nollywood colleagues, and frantic medical searches by his family, he sadly passed away a few days after the public diagnosis.
May his soul rest in peace amen
