The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has said that deceased Nollywood icon, Alhaji Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, was more than actor.
According to the Ooni, the Thespian who died on Sunday at 66 was also a culture advocate.
The Ooni noted this when he expressed his condolences in a statement on Monday.
It was issued and signed by the Senior Media Officer to the Ooni, Sodiq Lawal, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Mr Moses Olafare, on Monday.
Ogunwusi commiserated with Ogogo’s family and the entire Nollywood industry.
He also condoled with Yoruba actors and actresses, friends, associates and millions of fans of the deceased over the painful loss.
The traditional ruler described Ogogo as a legend of Yoruba cinema and an advocate of Yoruba culture, saying his contributions went beyond entertainment.
According to him, the late actor used his talent to preserve, promote and project Yoruba language, traditions, values and identity through his decades-long career.
The Ooni explained that Ogogo belonged to a generation of artistes, who used their talents to tell authentic Yoruba stories and showcase the richness of the culture.
“Ogogo was not merely an actor; he was an advocate of our culture.
‘’Through his craft, he promoted our language, traditions, values and identity. His contribution to Yoruba cinema will remain indelible,” he said.
Ogunwusi said the death of the veteran actor had created a significant vacuum in the creative industry, particularly the Yoruba-language film sector.
He urged members of the entertainment industry and admirers of the deceased to take solace in his enduring legacy and contributions to Yoruba culture and Nigerian cinema.
The Ooni commiserated with Ogogo’s wives, children and extended family, praying that ‘’Olodumare’’ grant the deceased eternal rest and give the bereaved fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
