Nigerian filmmaker and actress Funke Akindele has faced criticism from some Nigerians after sharing birthday photos online just hours after the death and burial of veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo.
Recall that; Drivetvnews report that Ogogo died on Sunday, August 23, 2026, following a prolonged battle with cancer. He was buried on Monday, August 24, according to Islamic rites.
Akindele had earlier expressed condolences over Ogogo’s death on her Instagram Story on Sunday. However, she later shared new photographs on Monday to mark her 49th birthday.
Her birthday posts attracted criticism from some social media users, who accused her of being insensitive because of the timing of the celebration.
Some commenters reminded Akindele of Ogogo’s influence and contribution to her career, while others argued that she should have postponed her public birthday celebration out of respect for the late actor.
One commenter wrote that it was inappropriate for her to celebrate publicly while the industry was mourning Ogogo, despite her having earlier expressed condolences.
Another social media user described the timing as wrong, noting that Ogogo had been one of Akindele’s senior colleagues within the industry.
Others urged her to use the occasion to honour the late actor, arguing that the death of a prominent colleague should have prompted a period of reflection among members of the entertainment industry.
One commenter questioned whether Ogogo was not part of Akindele’s success story before wishing her a happy birthday and long life.
Another criticised her for posting birthday photos while Ogogo’s death remained a major topic online, urging her to apologise and remove the posts.
However, the criticism came from social media users, and the reactions do not necessarily represent a consensus among Nigerians or the entertainment industry.
Akindele had already acknowledged Ogogo’s death before sharing her birthday posts.
