Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has faced criticism on social media after sharing a birthday message on Monday, August 24, the same day veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, was laid to rest in Ilaro, Ogun State.
Akindele, who turned 49 on Monday, marked her birthday with a message expressing gratitude to God for His faithfulness and reflecting on her personal and professional journey. She also prayed for good health, long life, peace and the grace to continue fulfilling her purpose.
Her birthday post, however, generated reactions from some social media users who questioned the timing of the celebration, given that the Yoruba film industry was mourning Ogogo, who died on Sunday, August 23, at the age of 66.
Ogogo’s remains were taken to his hometown, Ilaro, ahead of his final burial rites on Monday. Several Nollywood colleagues, including Yinka Quadri, Jide Kosoko, Ireti Osayemi and Bisi Omo Logbalogba, were in Ilaro for the ceremony.
The actor’s death came after reports that he had been battling cancer. His daughters, Kaira and Lima Taiwo, had previously appealed for assistance for their father during his illness.
The coincidence of Akindele’s birthday and Ogogo’s burial sparked debate online, with some users arguing that her celebratory post was insensitive given the timing, while others defended her right to mark her birthday.
Akindele has not, as of the time of filing this report, publicly indicated that her birthday post was intended to diminish the significance of Ogogo’s death or burial.
The actress remains one of Nigeria’s prominent Nollywood figures, with a career spanning acting, producing and directing. Her birthday was also marked by messages of goodwill from fans and colleagues across social media.
Meanwhile, tributes continued to pour in for Ogogo as colleagues and members of the Yoruba film industry gathered in Ilaro to honour the veteran actor.
