Ogun State All Progressives Congress governorship candidate, Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, has said the late veteran actor, Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, was planned to be appointed as his Special Adviser on Tourism and Culture if he emerged governor in the 2027 election.
Yayi said this during a Tuesday condolence visit to the family of the late actor in Ilaro, Ogun State.
The senator described Ogogo as an elder brother and praised his contributions to acting, culture and the preservation of Yoruba heritage.
Yayi said he had already planned to make Ogogo a member of his cabinet because of his experience and knowledge of the state’s cultural heritage.
He said, “I told God that if it is destined for me to be governor, my elder brother Ogogo will be my Special Adviser on Tourism and Culture. My plan was he will be a Special Adviser that is a cabinet member. I kept it on my chest; I was walking with it I believed God will do.
“And the reasons are not far-fetched. He is good at what he does as an actor, a traditional person, as a cultural person. What else do I want? Man proposes, God disposes.”
Senator Solomon Yayi and late Nollywood actor, Taiwo Hassan, known as Ogogo…Photo Credit: autojosh.com
Ogogo, whose real name was Taiwo Hassan, died on August 23, 2026, aged 66, after battling stage-four cancer.
Yayi had earlier described the actor’s death as a monumental loss to the creative and entertainment industry, noting that Ogogo was not only a celebrated actor but also a proud son of Ilaro.
The senator recalled Ogogo’s contribution to Yoruba-language cinema and his impact on generations of Nigerians through his decades-long career.
He also recalled the difficult period of Ogogo’s illness, saying he and others supported the actor and his family and made efforts to ensure that he received medical attention.
Yayi said, “We did everything humanly possible to ensure that he received the necessary medical care. Sadly, despite all efforts, Almighty God has pleased to call him home.”
He praised the late actor’s talent, humility and commitment to his craft, while commiserating with his family, friends, colleagues and the people of Ilaro.
