By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.
The Ogun State governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, has disclosed that the late veteran actor, Taiwo Hassan Ogogo, would have been appointed Special Adviser on Culture and Tourism with cabinet rank if he had emerged governor of the state.
Yayi disclosed during a condolence visit to the family of the late thespian in Ilaro, Yewa South Local Government Area of Ogun State, where he described Ogogo’s death as a painful loss to Yewaland, Ogun State and Nigeria.
The APC candidate said he had planned to facilitate Ogogo’s medical treatment abroad and had commenced arrangements, including processing a visa to India, but regretted that the actor’s worsening health prevented him from travelling before his death.
Describing Ogogo as a legend, brother and trusted friend, Yayi said their relationship transcended politics, noting that the late actor was deeply committed to his ambition to become governor of Ogun State and worked actively for the emergence of a Yewa indigene as governor.
According to him, Ogogo played a significant role in mobilising support for his political ambition and even championed a group known as “Governor Boys” in furtherance of his campaign.
Yayi said Ogogo’s wealth of experience and influence in the entertainment industry would have made him an important member of his administration, particularly in promoting Ogun State’s cultural heritage and tourism potential. “I had planned to make him my Special Adviser on Culture and Tourism if I eventually get elected as governor. Special Adviser on Culture and Tourism, with cabinet rank,” he said.
The governorship candidate, who said he cancelled other engagements after returning from vacation to visit the deceased’s family, promised to immortalise Ogogo if elected governor. He also pledged continued support for the family, saying he considered himself part of the Ogogo family.
Yayi further announced plans to organise a 40th-day prayer in honour of the late actor, while urging the family to accept his death as the will of God. He said Ogogo was not merely an Ilaro indigene but an ambassador of Ogun State whose contributions to the entertainment industry would be remembered.
