Nigeria’s gospel music community is in mourning after the family of popular singer Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, better known as Toluwanisings, confirmed his death in the late hours of October 14, 2026. The announcement, shared on the singer’s official accounts, described him as a dearly loved husband, family member and gospel minister of Toluwani Gospel Music Ministry (TOGOMM).
The family’s statement read:
“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. A dearly loved husband, family member, and gospel minister. Please keep his wife, family, and loved ones in your prayers during this difficult time.”
Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
Reports indicate that Toluwanisings collapsed on the stairs of his Ibadan residence shortly after a worship event the previous night. He was rushed to hospital, but the first two facilities allegedly turned him away. By the time he reached a third hospital, it was too late. The exact cause of death has not been officially disclosed.
Just three months earlier, in July 2026, the singer and members of his band survived a serious road accident involving a heavy-duty trailer while returning from a ministration. He had publicly described the incident as a miraculous escape.
Hailing from Ikirun in Osun State, Toluwanisings worked as a trained estate surveyor before rising in gospel music. He became known for powerful worship songs and live performances that resonated widely across Nigeria.
Comedian and gospel minister Ayo Ajewole, popularly known as Woli Agba, led the tributes with an emotional post that captured the shock of many. Captioning it “Sunset at Midday,” he wrote:
“Ah! Toluwanisings. An Angel just passed on. A very unique voice has dropped the microphone and walked off the stage just like that. What a painful and heartbreaking loss! A voice that brought joy, touched souls, and made beautiful memories has gone silent too soon. Life can be so unpredictable; one moment, we are celebrating life, and the next, we are struggling to find the words to express our grief. Toluwanisings, your departure has left a painful void in many hearts. It is difficult to understand, and even more difficult to accept. Some departures leave us speechless, and this is one of them. May the Almighty God comfort your family, friends, colleagues, fans, and everyone whose life you touched. May He grant us the strength to bear this painful loss, and may the beautiful memories you leave behind bring comfort in this season of sorrow. I can’t believe I am typing all this. Oh Lord! Life is freaking fickle. Sing with the Angels, bro.”
Other voices in the gospel and entertainment space have also expressed deep sorrow. Gospel artiste Mega99 described the late singer as “a rare gem with a unique voice.” Nollywood actress Funke Akindele also paid tribute, remembering him as a humble and hardworking gentleman.
The sudden loss of Toluwanisings has left fans and colleagues reflecting on the fragility of life. As the family prepares for funeral arrangements, the gospel community continues to pray for strength and comfort for his wife and loved ones.