Nigerian gospel singer Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, popularly known as Toluwanisings, has died, leaving fans, fellow gospel ministers and the wider Christian music community mourning his passing at a time when his music career was still gaining attention.
The singer’s family confirmed his death in a statement shared on his official social media account on Wednesday night, October 14, 2026. According to the announcement, he passed away in the early hours of the same day.
“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,” the statement read.
The family described him as a dearly loved husband, family member and gospel minister, while asking the public to remember his wife and loved ones in their prayers. It added that funeral arrangements would be announced in due course.
News of his death emerged earlier on Wednesday after lawyer and activist Pelumi Olajengbesi, convener of the Coalition of Public Interest Lawyers and Advocates, expressed grief in a social media post that sparked concern among fans.
Sharing the singer’s photograph, Olajengbesi wrote, “My God! What a life! No, Lord! We plead for Your mercy upon Toluwanisings.”
He also expressed concern over the deaths of young Nigerians, adding, “I am deeply troubled by the deaths of young men and women. This is not God’s plan for us.”
As the news circulated, comedian and gospel minister Ayo Ajewole, popularly known as Woli Agba, urged the public not to give up hope. He appealed to followers to continue praying for the singer, writing, “Please hold on. Please don’t conclude. We are trusting God. Please.”
However, the family’s subsequent announcement confirmed that Toluwanisings had died. His cause of death has not been officially disclosed.
Reports published after the announcement said the singer had ministered at In His Presence, a worship programme hosted by gospel singer Bidemi Olaoba in Ibadan on Tuesday night, October 13. He reportedly complained of tiredness and later slumped at his residence. Details surrounding the reported medical emergency have not been independently confirmed by his family.
Toluwanisings built a following through energetic praise sessions, contemporary gospel recordings and Yoruba-inspired worship music. His songs include “Kos’Oluwa Laye,” “A Very Big God,” “E Lagbara,” “Onibuore” and the Unreserved Praise series. He also collaborated with fellow gospel singer Adeyinka Alaseyori on “Ase Ti Jade.”
His music reached a wider audience around 2021, with comedian Woli Arole reportedly helping introduce his work to more listeners by sharing one of his songs online. Since then, Toluwanisings had continued releasing music and praise projects across digital platforms.
Beyond music, reports identified him as a trained estate surveyor and valuer from Ikirun, Osun State. He was married, and his family’s statement described him as a devoted husband and loved family member.
His passing comes months after he and members of his music crew survived a serious road accident involving their bus and a fully loaded trailer while returning from a ministration in July 2026. The singer had shared images of the damaged vehicle and expressed gratitude that his team survived the incident.
Tributes have continued to emerge from colleagues and fans, many remembering him for his distinctive voice, energetic ministrations and contribution to gospel music.
As the gospel community mourns, attention remains on the family’s request for prayers and privacy. Further details about the circumstances of his death and funeral arrangements are expected to come from his loved ones.
