Nollywood actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, is alive, according to his family, after unverified reports of his death circulated online on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, amid the veteran actor’s ongoing battle with stage 4 cancer.
Ogogo’s daughter, Haleemah Taiwo, dismissed the reports in a post on her Instagram page and appealed to members of the public to stop sharing unconfirmed information about her father’s condition.
Also read: Ogogo’s health battle: Doctor sheds light on palliative care
“This is fake. Please stop spreading fake news,” Haleemah wrote.
The clarification came less than 24 hours after Haleemah publicly sought assistance for her father, revealing the severity of his health condition and appealing to people who could help with herbal or advanced medical treatment.
Haleemah said the actor had been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and that the hospital treating him had stopped chemotherapy.
Her appeal prompted concern among fans, colleagues and members of the Nigerian entertainment community, with messages of support subsequently circulating online.
The latest death reports appear to have intensified those concerns, but the family’s response makes clear that the reports should not be treated as factual.
Ogogo, one of the recognisable figures in Yoruba-language Nollywood, has built a career spanning several decades and is known for his work as an actor, producer and filmmaker.
The actor has maintained a strong following among audiences of Yoruba films, where he became known for his commanding screen presence and distinctive performances.
The family’s latest statement comes at a sensitive moment, however, as details of Ogogo’s health have only recently become public.
Haleemah’s earlier appeal was focused on finding possible treatment options for her father, while the family’s response to the death reports has now shifted attention to the dangers of spreading unverified information about his condition.
For the family, the immediate priority remains Ogogo’s health and access to appropriate care.
The development also highlights the difficult position families can face when serious illness becomes the subject of rapid social media speculation.
In such circumstances, unconfirmed reports can cause additional distress for relatives while creating unnecessary alarm among supporters.
Also read: Ogogo’s health battle: Doctor sheds light on palliative care
Until the family provides further information, claims about Ogogo’s death should therefore be treated as false.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
