The father of late gospel singer Toluwanisings has finally spoken publicly for the first time since his son’s sudden death, offering a heartfelt account of the singer’s early life, religious path and the close family bonds that endured until the very end.
In an emotional revelation, the bereaved father confirmed key details about his son’s upbringing and expressed pride in the faith that defined his later years.
Born Sadiq Olayemi Bayonle in July 1992, the singer was just 34 years old when he passed away on October 14, 2026. His mother died when he was only six months old. After her remains were brought back from Kano, her Christian relatives asked to take custody of the infant so they could find comfort in raising him. The boy was accordingly raised by his maternal family in the Christian faith, which shaped the spiritual foundation that later defined his gospel music career.
Despite growing up away from his paternal home, Toluwanisings stayed connected to that side of the family. A paternal uncle actively supported him by paying school fees, offering financial help and even buying him a bicycle. After secondary school the young man moved to Lagos and enrolled at Yaba College of Technology, where he later met the woman who became his wife through their shared involvement in a church choir. He formally informed his family of his intention to marry her.
His father addressed questions about the marriage to Toluwanisings’ mother with quiet clarity.
“I married his mother in a legally recognised, full marriage, although I had a child with another woman before I legally married his mother,” he stated.
The father went on to remarry and had more children. When Toluwanisings later asked to be introduced to his half-siblings, the request was honoured and a warm relationship developed. The singer provided financial support to both his father and the younger siblings.
One particularly touching detail emerged about the final hours. Just one day before his death, Toluwanisings promised to help set up one of his younger half-siblings.
“He was a caring son, a supportive brother, and a blessing to his family,” his father said.
On the question of faith, the older man expressed genuine happiness.
“I was happy when Toluwanisings embraced Christianity because our family has both Christians and Muslims, and I was glad to see him practising his faith.”
Regarding burial arrangements, the grieving father made a clear request. He wants his son laid to rest inside the house the singer built during his lifetime rather than at any other location.