Yinka Quadri mourns late friend Ogogo, recalls final moments

By Damilola Akinwale –

Veteran Nollywood actor Yinka Quadri has penned an emotional tribute to late actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, recalling their final moments together, which have remained deeply etched in his memory.

Quadri, who was a close associate and colleague of Ogogo, expressed his feelings in a lengthy Instagram post on Wednesday.

He recounted his last visit to Ogogo on his sickbed, where the late actor assured him that nothing bad would happen to him as Quadri struggled to hold back tears beside his friend’s hospital bed.

The actor also expressed gratitude for the life Ogogo lived, saying he was thankful that his friend did not endure a prolonged illness that would have placed his family and colleagues under continuous financial pressure.

“I thank God that you did not have to go through a prolonged struggle that would have left us constantly seeking financial assistance to care for you. May the Almighty forgive your shortcomings,” he wrote.

Reflecting on their friendship, which withstood various challenges for more than 40 years, Quadri recounted that several people had tried to pull them apart but failed. He described their relationship as one that had metamorphosed into brotherhood and was ordained by heaven.

According to the veteran actor, he and Ogogo had known each other since 1984, with their relationship growing beyond an ordinary professional friendship despite occasional rumours that they had fallen out. He added that the memories and experiences they shared would remain with him despite Ogogo’s death.

Quadri and Ogogo were prominent figures in the Yoruba Nollywood industry and were associated with the Odunfa Caucus, a theatre group credited with playing a significant role in the development of Yoruba cinema and helping to pave the way for many other actors in the industry.