Tragedy Strikes: Gospel Singer Toluwanisings Confirmed Dead, PA Reveals Details

Nigerian gospel singer Olayemi “Toluwanisings” Bolaji has passed away. News of his death began circulating on social media on Wednesday afternoon, causing initial concern and uncertainty among his fans, which was later confirmed by his family. In a statement posted on his Instagram page, the family disclosed that the singer died in the early hours of Wednesday.

Further details regarding the circumstances of his death were revealed by Babadunni Gbolabo, the personal assistant (PA) to the late singer. Speaking to the BBC from Toluwanisings’ residence in Alakia, Ibadan, Oyo State, Mr. Gbolabo stated that the singer had suddenly slumped in the early hours of Wednesday. He recounted the frantic efforts made to save the singer’s life, which involved taking him to between seven and eight hospitals in Ibadan. At each facility, they were met with challenges, with some citing doctors on strike, others stating doctors were not on ground, and some unable to admit him. Mr. Gbolabo emphasized that Toluwanisings had shown no prior signs of illness and was in good health before the incident.

The initial family statement expressed deep sorrow over his passing but did not immediately disclose the cause or exact location of his death. They referred to him as “A dearly loved husband, family member, and gospel minister” and requested prayers for his wife, family, and loved ones during this difficult time. Funeral arrangements, the family confirmed, would be announced in due course. Toluwanisings is survived by his wife and two children.

Following the family’s confirmation, tributes from friends, colleagues, and fans have continued to pour in, expressing grief and shock over his sudden departure. Among those who paid tribute were actor Rotimi Salami, Olamide “Dele Omo Woli” Mayungbe, comedian and content creator Ayo “Woli Agba” Ajewole, and Boye Best. Woli Agba notably described the singer’s death as a “midday sunset,” likening his unexpected exit to a “unique voice that dropped the microphone and left the stage without warning.” He conveyed the news as painful and heartbreaking, acknowledging that Toluwanisings’ voice had brought joy, touched souls, and created beautiful memories, leaving a profound void that is difficult to understand or accept. Woli Agba concluded his tribute by praying for God to grant comfort and strength to the singer’s family, friends, colleagues, fans, and everyone touched by his life.

Toluwanisings was widely recognized as a gospel singer, songwriter, and music minister who cultivated a strong following through his lively praise songs and worship music infused with Yoruba influences. His popular recordings include “Kabiyesi Olorun Ayo,” “Unreserved Praise,” “A Very Big God,” “Onibuore,” “Eleda,” and “I’m Not Alone.” He developed an interest in music during his childhood, beginning his journey by singing in church choirs before pursuing his passion professionally. Throughout his career, he collaborated with other notable gospel musicians such such as Tosin Bee and Adeyinka Alaseyori. His distinctive sound, which blends traditional Nigerian gospel elements with contemporary styles, attracted a broad audience across social media and various streaming platforms.

In a past incident in July, Toluwanisings and members of his music crew had survived a severe road accident. The incident involved their bus and a fully loaded trailer while they were returning from a gospel ministration. The singer shared details of the accident on Instagram, posting photographs that showed the extensive damage to their bus, attributing their survival to divine intervention. He wrote, “We survived what could have claimed our lives. My Israel will never die in the hands of Pharaoh. When the enemy comes like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will raise a standard against them! This is how my team and I could have been completely crushed by a fully loaded trailer on our way back from a ministration this morning.”