Nigerian gospel music has been thrown into mourning following the death of popular singer Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, widely known as Toluwanisings.
The singer’s family announced his passing in a statement shared on his social media account, saying he died in the early hours of Wednesday, October 14, 2026.
The statement identified the deceased as Minister Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji of the Toluwani Gospel Music Ministry (TOGOMM) and described him as a cherished husband, family member and gospel minister.
“With deep sorrow, the family announces the passing of Minister Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, Toluwani Gospel Music Ministry (TOGOMM), who passed away in the early hours of 14 October 2026,” the family said.
The family also appealed for prayers for his wife and other loved ones as they come to terms with the loss.
It added that information regarding his burial and other funeral arrangements would be made public in due course.
The announcement has generated widespread reactions across social media, with fans, fellow musicians and public figures expressing shock and sadness over the singer’s death.
Pelumi Olajengbesi, convener of the Coalition of Public Interest Lawyers and Advocates, was among those who reacted to the development.
In a post on Instagram accompanying a photograph of the singer, Olajengbesi lamented the loss of young people and called for divine mercy.
“My God! What a life! No, Lord! We plead for Your mercy upon Toluwanisings.
“I am deeply troubled by the deaths of young men and women. This is not God’s plan for us.
“We say no to untimely death,” he wrote.
An X user, Ennybets, also shared an account of seeing the singer at a hospital on Wednesday.
The user said he had taken his wife to the hospital for antenatal care when a vehicle arrived with the gospel musician.
In another post following news of the singer’s death, Ennybets described the emotional scene involving members of the deceased’s band.
“I cried about this man’s passing. The fact that I was seeing over 10 grown men who are his band members, crying heavily in front of me is giving me trauma,” the user wrote.
Gospel singer Mega99 also expressed grief over the loss, paying tribute to Toluwanisings’ vocal ability and musical talent.
“A rare gem with a unique voice is gone. This life,” Mega99 said.
Although reports circulating online have speculated about the circumstances of the singer’s death, no official cause has been established.
Claims suggesting that he died after slipping while bathing remain unverified, as the family has not disclosed what led to his death.
Further details, including funeral arrangements, are expected from the family in due course.
Leave a Reply