Kira Taiwo, daughter of the late veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, has shared a touching exchange she had with her father before his passing.
The heartfelt conversation, which Kira posted to her Instagram Story on Monday, came just a day after Ogogo died at the age of 66.
In the message, dated July 26, Ogogo comforted Kira and encouraged her to remain strong during his illness. He wrote, “How are you? I heard you are crying. Seeing you and your sisters smile is making me strong. If you cry, it will make me sad, and I will start to think.” He went on to urge his daughter to trust in Allah, saying, “Be strong. I am strong. Nothing is going to happen to me, insha Allah. If you do, then don’t cry, my princess.”
Kira responded by assuring her father of her strength and faith, replying, “Daddy, I’m not crying oo… don’t mind Haleemah. I trust in Allah, sir. I love you very much.” Ogogo replied warmly, “Love u too, my princess.”
This emotional exchange surfaced weeks before the family publicly revealed that Ogogo was battling stage-four cancer and called for medical assistance. Both Kira and her sister, Lima Taiwo, made emotional appeals on Instagram after Ogogo’s health took a turn for the worse. Lima explained that the family only recently realized the severity of his illness, as his appearance had not initially suggested he was seriously ill. Kira also disclosed that the hospital treating Ogogo could no longer administer chemotherapy, prompting the family to seek alternative treatments.
Ogogo passed away around 3 pm on Sunday, as announced by fellow veteran actor Jide Kosoko. His burial is set for Monday in his hometown of Ilaro, Ogun State. A lying-in-state will be held at 11 am at the Pavilion in Ilaro, with burial prayers scheduled for 10 am at the Asade Agunloye Pavilion Ground, according to the Ilaro Muslim Community. He will be laid to rest according to Islamic rites.
Ogogo was a celebrated figure in the Yoruba film industry, leaving behind a legacy as an actor, filmmaker, and director that spanned decades.
