Nollywood actress Toyosi Adesanya has paid tribute to late veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, recalling the years she spent learning under his guidance and the impact he had on younger actors.
Ogogo died on Sunday at the age of 66 after battling stage-four cancer. He was buried in his hometown of Ilaro, Ogun State, on Monday morning.
Speaking in an interview with TheCable Lifestyle, Adesanya said her relationship with the late actor began in 1994, when she joined the Odunfa Caucus, an acting group led by prominent Yoruba actors.
She said she spent 14 years training with the group under the guidance of Ogogo, Yinka Quadri, Abbey Lanre and Are Osan.
Adesanya described Ogogo as a man of integrity and simplicity who played an important role in shaping her acting career.
“I am one of the proteges of Alhaji Taiwo Hassan Ogogo.”
She recalled that rehearsals were held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 7pm to 9pm at No. 40 Odunfa Street, Ebute Metta, describing her years with the group as a memorable period.
The actress said she was deeply affected when she first learnt of Ogogo’s cancer diagnosis, particularly after speaking with his daughter, Shakirat.
Adesanya also remembered the late actor’s kindness towards younger members of the acting group, saying he never treated them as mere trainees.
“Whenever we had rehearsal, he treated everybody like his own children.”
She further recalled how Ogogo and fellow veteran Yinka Quadri supported her when she produced her first movie in 2002.
According to her, Ogogo was instrumental in creating opportunities for many actors and remained widely loved within the industry.
“Ogogo was the one who paved the way for so many actors. He’s loved. Everybody loved him.”
Adesanya described the late actor as “one in a million” and prayed for his soul to rest in peace.
She also expressed gratitude for the lessons and support she received from him throughout her years of training and career.
