OJOPAGOGO: Nigerian Actor, Filmmaker, Musician and Producer

OJOPAGOGO 

Ojopagogo (real name Olayiwola Olasunkanmi Razaq) is a veteran Nigerian actor, filmmaker, producer, and musician primarily active in the Yoruba film industry. Born on September 30, 1964, in Iseyin, Oyo State, he has over 40 years of experience in the arts and is widely recognized for his versatility, often portraying wise elders or comedic characters.

Stage Name Origin: He earned the name "Ojopagogo" in 1986 during a stage performance for the Alaafin of Oyo, where a spectator's shout was playfully corrected by another, sticking as his professional moniker.

Film & TV: He has featured in numerous high-profile productions, including the acclaimed film and series Anikulapo, Jagun Jagun, and King of Thieves.

Multitalented Artistry: Beyond acting, he is a trained dancer, drummer, songwriter, and fine artist. Recently, he released a hit single titled "DÒDÒ" 

Production: He runs Ojopagogo TV, an online platform dedicated to indigenous entertainment content. 

Spouse: He is married to fellow veteran actress Moji Afolayan, the daughter of the late legendary filmmaker Adeyemi Afolayan (Ade Love). They married in 2003 and have children together.

First Wife: His first wife, Funmilayo Akanke Olayiwola, was a multi-talented performer who tragically died on a movie set in May 2000.

Family Ties: Through his marriage to Moji, he is a brother-in-law to notable filmmakers Kunle, Gabriel, and Aremu Afolayan. 

He often portrays characters such as

• strong village men

• warriors or traditional figures

• dramatic family characters

• action driven personalities

These roles allowed him to showcase his versatility and emotional intensity on screen.

His performances often combine humor, seriousness, and cultural authenticity, which resonates strongly with audiences who enjoy traditional Yoruba storytelling.

Film Production and Filmmaking

Beyond acting, Olayiwola Olasunkanmi Rasaq has also ventured into movie production and filmmaking. Many actors in the Yoruba movie industry eventually become producers to create their own stories and projects.

Producing films allows him to contribute creatively to the industry by telling stories that reflect Yoruba culture, beliefs, and everyday experiences.

His involvement in filmmaking shows his commitment to the growth of indigenous Nigerian cinema.

Personality and Public Image

Ojopagogo is known among colleagues and fans as energetic, passionate, and deeply committed to his craft. His performances often display strong emotional delivery, which makes his characters memorable.

Within the Yoruba movie industry, actors often build strong personal relationships and collaborations, and he has worked with many respected Yoruba actors and filmmakers.

Influence in Yoruba Nollywood

The Yoruba film industry has been an important part of Nollywood’s development, producing thousands of movies that celebrate culture, language, and tradition.

Actors like Olayiwola Olasunkanmi Rasaq contribute to keeping Yoruba storytelling alive through film. Their work helps preserve cultural narratives while entertaining modern audiences.

Through his roles and productions, Ojopagogo continues to contribute to the growth of indigenous language cinema in Nigeria.

Career and Legacy

Although he may not always appear in mainstream English Nollywood productions, Ojopagogo remains a recognizable figure among fans of Yoruba movies.

His dedication to acting, filmmaking, and cultural storytelling has helped him build a respectable place in the Yoruba movie industry.

As Yoruba cinema continues to evolve with digital platforms and global audiences, actors like Olayiwola Olasunkanmi Rasaq remain important voices in preserving and promoting Yoruba language storytelling through film.