Former Vice-President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Atiku Abubakar, has mourned veteran Nollywood actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, who died on Sunday at the age of 66.
Atiku, in a statement posted on X, described the actor’s death as “deeply saddening,” noting that it came only days after the public became aware of his battle with cancer.
“The news of the passing of celebrated Nollywood actor, Alhaji Taiwo Hassan, is deeply saddening,” Atiku said.
He described Hassan as more than an accomplished actor, saying his career had left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s entertainment industry and society.
“Through a remarkable career, he brought laughter into countless homes, told stories that reflected our society and used his talent not only to entertain but also to educate and inspire social rebirth,” the former vice-president said.
Atiku said the actor’s death had created a significant void in Nigeria’s creative sector and among his numerous admirers.
“His passing leaves a painful void in Nigeria’s creative community and in the hearts of the millions who cherished his work,” he said.
The ADC presidential candidate expressed condolences to Hassan’s family, colleagues and admirers in Nigeria and abroad, praying for divine comfort for those mourning him.
“I join his family, colleagues and admirers in Nigeria and across the world in mourning this profound loss,” Atiku said.
He prayed that Allah would forgive the late actor’s shortcomings, comfort his loved ones and grant him eternal rest.
“May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, comfort his loved ones and grant him eternal rest in Al-Jannah Firdaus,” he added.
Hassan, widely recognised as one of the prominent figures in Yoruba-language Nollywood, died on Sunday at 66 after a battle with cancer.
His death came shortly after his daughters, Kira and Haleemah, disclosed that the actor had been battling stage-four cancer and appealed for support as the family sought treatment options.
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