For Nollywood actress Toyosi Adesanya, the legacy of late veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, goes beyond the films he featured in, with his greatest contribution reflected in the careers of actors he trained and mentored.
Adesanya, who arrived in Ilaro, Ogun State, on Monday for the burial of the 66-year-old actor, said she was one of the many practitioners whose careers were shaped by Hassan’s mentorship.
She revealed that her journey under Ogogo began in 1994 when she joined the Odunfa Caucus, a theatre group led by veteran actor Yinka Quadri, where she underwent a decade of training under senior practitioners.
“I’m one of the protégés of Alhaji Taiwo Hassan Ogogo. I joined them in 1994 under the auspices of Alhaji Yinka Quadri, Alhaji Abbey Lanre and Alhaji Araosan,” Adesanya said.
The actress said the training was demanding, with regular rehearsals and practical sessions that prepared young practitioners for careers in the film industry.
“I trained for 10 years at Odunfa Caucus. My late boss was a man of integrity. He was an epitome of simplicity. He trained me out of chance,” she said.
According to Adesanya, Ogogo’s influence on his protégés extended beyond acting, as he created an environment where younger practitioners were treated with care and given opportunities to develop their talents.
“Ogogo is one in a million. We fondly call him Sir T, Omo Abuguloko, and I will never forget all his efforts,” she said.
“Whenever we had rehearsals, he treated everybody like his own children,” she added.
She also recalled how the late actor supported her at a crucial stage of her career, saying he stood beside her when she produced her first film in 2002, alongside Quadri.
“When I was producing my first movie in 2002, he stood by me alongside Alhaji Yinka Quadri,” Adesanya said.
For Adesanya, such interventions were part of a wider pattern of support that made Ogogo an important figure in the growth of several actors.
“Ogogo was the one who paved the way for so many actors. Ogogo is loved. Everybody loves him,” she said.
The actress also recalled the public admiration Ogogo commanded decades ago, citing an incident in 1997 when she travelled with him and other practitioners to the burial of veteran filmmaker Adeyemi Afolayan, popularly known as Adelove.
She said women who encountered the group during a stopover immediately recognised Ogogo and celebrated his presence, an experience she said reflected his popularity and influence even at the time.
Adesanya said the news of Ogogo’s health challenges and eventual death was particularly painful for her because of their longstanding relationship.
“I have been devastated since last week when I was talking to his daughter, Shakirate, popularly known as Kira, and Lolade Rashidats. I was not myself when I received the news of his cancer and health problem,” she said.
The actress, who described Hassan as her late boss and mentor, said his contribution to her career would remain unforgettable.
She prayed for the deceased actor’s soul and expressed gratitude for the impact he had on her life and the wider film industry.
“I don’t want to dwell too much. My late boss, rest in the bosom of Allah. We love you,” she said.
Hassan died on Sunday at the age of 66 after battling cancer. His death has continued to generate tributes from colleagues and admirers, with many highlighting his more than four decades of contribution to Yoruba-language cinema.
