Abimbola Fashola, wife of former Lagos governor Babatunde Fashola, was among those who got emotional at the night of tributes held in honour of gospel singer and Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) pastor, Bolaji Olarewaju, popularly known as Big Bolaji or Big B.

The event, which held on Monday at Trinity House, Lagos, began at 4 pm and was attended by family members, close friends and notable gospel artistes.

Notable personalities in attendance included Esther Igbekele, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Kehinde Daniel, Bukola Bekes and Reverend Esther Ajayi.

Mrs Fashola was seen with tears from her eyes as the hymn ‘In Christ Alone’ was sung during the programme. She quietly joined in singing while seated, visibly holding back emotions.

Other guests were also moved to tears, including Big Bolaji’s widow, Tolulope, who was captured on her knees crying as Pastor Ighodalo offered her comfort.

Big Bolaji died on Easter Saturday, April 19, at the age of 50 following a brief illness.

He is survived by his wife Tolulope, whom he married in 2005 and their children.

Until his death, Big Bolaji was known for his energetic worship style and his ability to fuse Yoruba rhythms with contemporary gospel music.

He was an ordained RCCG pastor and served on the board of directors for the Living Spring Music Festival, one of Nigeria’s longest-running gospel events.