The Ogun State governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, has revealed that the late Yoruba actor, Taiwo Hassan, widely known as Ogogo, was being considered for a key role in his administration.
Adeola made this known on Tuesday when he visited the family of the late actor in Ilaro, Ogun State, to offer his condolences.
The APC candidate said he had intended to appoint Ogogo as Special Adviser on Tourism and Culture, with cabinet-level responsibilities, if he won the 2027 governorship election.
According to him, the late actor’s extensive knowledge of Yoruba culture, tourism and the state’s heritage made him suitable for the proposed position.
Yayi said, “I had already decided that if God gives me the opportunity to become governor, Ogogo would be my Special Adviser on Tourism and Culture. I wanted the position to have cabinet status because I believed his experience and understanding of our heritage would be invaluable.”
He described the deceased as an elder brother and commended his decades-long contribution to Yoruba-language cinema and the preservation of the region’s cultural identity.
The politician added that Ogogo’s skills extended beyond acting, noting that his deep connection with traditional values and culture would have made him an important member of his administration.
He said, “He was not just an actor; he understood our traditions and culture deeply. He was exceptionally good at what he did, and I believed he had a lot to offer Ogun State.”
Adeola also reflected on the actor’s battle with illness, saying he and other well-wishers made efforts to support Ogogo and his family and facilitate access to medical care.
He said, “We did everything within our capacity to support him and ensure that he received the medical attention he needed. Unfortunately, despite all the efforts, God decided otherwise and called him home.”
Ogogo, who was 66, died on August 23, 2026, after battling stage-four cancer.
Adeola described his death as a significant loss to Ogun State, the entertainment industry and the Yoruba cultural community, stressing that the actor had influenced generations through his long and successful career.
The late actor, a prominent figure in Yoruba cinema, was buried in Ilaro in accordance with Islamic funeral rites.
His death has continued to generate tributes from colleagues, political leaders, fans and other Nigerians who have celebrated his contribution to the Nigerian film industry and Yoruba cultural heritage.
