The Chief Imam of Ilaro, Alhaji Tajudeen Adewunmi, has explained the circumstances surrounding ₦25 million linked to late actor Taiwo Hassan, Ogogo. The cleric spoke during a recent interview with BBC Yoruba.
He explained his close relationship with the late veteran actor, Alhaji Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo. According to Adewunmi, their relationship stretched back to childhood. He also revealed that he grew up only four buildings away from the actor’s residence.
Their bond reportedly remained strong until Ogogo’s final days. 
Why Ogogo and Imam wept on his last visit to the sick actor
Adewunmi recalled visiting Ogogo during his illness. He said he visited the actor at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) and St Nicholas Hospital. During his final visit, Ogogo was reportedly too weak to speak.
“His eyes met mine, but he was too weak to speak,” the Imam recalled.
He said the emotional encounter left both men in tears.
“I prayed for him and returned home with a heavy heart,” he added.
Adewunmi said he continued praying for Ogogo’s recovery. At the time, plans were reportedly underway to fly the actor to India for further treatment.
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Why Ogogo Sent Imam N25m
According to the Imam, Ogogo contacted him the day after the hospital visit. The actor reportedly asked him to keep some money on his behalf. He subsequently transferred N25 million into Adewunmi’s bank account. Ogogo also explained what he wanted the money used for.
“Please help me keep this money. It is meant for renovating my grandfather’s house,” he reportedly told him.
Adewunmi immediately documented the transaction with his son, Adam. He also signed the document for future reference. The Imam said he understood the importance of keeping proper records; peradventure anything happens to him or Ogogo.
He also informed Ogogo’s brother, Ayinde, and eldest daughter, Rasheedat. He told them about the money and assured them it remained safe.
‘The Money Was Not for the Mosque’ – Imam Adewunmi declares
Adewunmi also addressed rumours surrounding the N25 million. Some reports had suggested Ogogo gave him the money as a donation to the mosque. However, the Imam firmly rejected that claim.
“I want to make it clear that the money was not for the mosque,” he said.
He stressed that Ogogo specifically mentioned renovating his grandfather’s dilapidated house.
Following the actor’s burial, Adewunmi contacted the family again. He reportedly gathered Ogogo’s wives, children and close relatives to discuss the money and what to do with it.
Family Decides What Happens Next
According to the Imam, the family collectively agreed that he should transfer the money to them. They chose Ogogo’s elder brother, Alhaji Rilwan, as the recipient. On the eighth-day Fidau prayer, Adewunmi and Ayinde reportedly met at the bank. He then transferred the entire N25 million to Ogogo’s elder brother.
Meanwhile, the cleric continues to mourn his longtime friend.
“We miss Alhaji Ogogo,” he said.
He described the actor as a man who brought peace and joy to those around him. The Imam believes Ogogo’s absence has created a void that will not easily be filled.
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