Nigerian gospel singer Olayemi Bolaji, widely recognized by his stage name Toluwanisings, has died in Ibadan, Oyo State, according to Punch. The artist passed away on Wednesday after reportedly slumping at his residence, a development that followed a performance at a local worship service the previous day. His family confirmed the death after several hospitals had allegedly turned him away, a detail that has added to the sense of suddenness surrounding his passing.
Bidemi Olaoba, a fellow gospel musician, organized the 'In His Presence' worship service where Bolaji performed on Sunday. In a Facebook post accompanied by video footage of the performance, Olaoba reflected on the final encounter, stating that he would have allowed Bolaji more time on stage had he known it would be his last. Olaoba described the void left by the singer, who is best known for the track 'Kabiesi Olorun Ayo,' as immeasurable. He wrote that the late artist's voice might be silent on earth, but his legacy of devotion would endure for generations.
The death of Bolaji has prompted reactions from other figures in the Nigerian gospel music scene. Pelumi Deborah, a colleague of the late singer, took to social media to express her shock, noting that they had shared a laugh just three days prior. She described the loss as an unfinished conversation, emphasizing the fragility of life. Dare Melody also weighed in, characterizing the news as a "rude shock" that remains difficult to believe even in the midst of the collective grief.
According to Punch, the community is mourning the loss of an artist whose ministry was marked by his dedication to worship. The timeline of events, from his Sunday performance to his Wednesday death, has highlighted the abrupt nature of his departure. While the specific medical causes are still being processed by the family, the immediate reaction from the industry has focused on the emotional impact of losing a prominent voice in the genre so quickly after a successful public appearance.