Nigerian gospel singer Olayemi Bolaji, popularly known as Toluwanisings, has died at the age of 41, his family has announced.
The family confirmed his death in a statement posted on his verified social media pages late Wednesday, saying he passed away in the early hours of October 14, 2026.
“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.
Describing him as a beloved husband, family member and gospel minister, the family appealed for prayers and support for his wife and other loved ones during the difficult period.
“A dearly loved husband, family member, and gospel minister. Please keep his wife, family, and loved ones in your prayers during this difficult time,” the statement added.
Toluwanisings is survived by his wife and children. The cause of his death has not been disclosed, while the family said details of his funeral arrangements would be announced in due course.
The singer’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, friends and fans, with many celebrating his distinctive voice and contributions to gospel music.
Comedian Ayo Ajewole, popularly known as Woli Agba, described the singer’s death as “sunset at midday” in an emotional tribute posted on Instagram.
“Sunset at Midday. 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!” he wrote.
Woli Agba lamented the loss of a voice that had brought joy to listeners and touched lives through music, describing the singer’s sudden departure as difficult to comprehend and accept.
“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,” he wrote.
He added that Toluwanisings’ death had left a painful void in the hearts of many and prayed for God to comfort his family, colleagues, friends and fans.
“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. Can’t believe I am typing all these,” he added.
Filmmaker Funke Akindele also expressed sadness over the singer’s death in a comment on the announcement.
“Ha. Hmmmm, such a humble and hard-working gentleman. May his soul rest in peace. May the lord comfort his loved ones,” she wrote.
Singer survived road accident in July
In July, Toluwanisings and members of his team survived a road accident while returning from a ministration.
The singer shared videos and photographs of the incident on Instagram, expressing gratitude that everyone had survived.
“And we survived what would have claimed our lives,” he wrote.
Describing the incident as an attempt by the devil to harm him and his team, he added: “When the enemy came like a flood, the Spirit of the lord raised a standard against them!”
He explained that a fully loaded trailer had nearly crushed his team while they were travelling home from a ministration, but confirmed that everyone was safe.
“Everyone is fine, and we are good. Thank you all for your call and messages,” he wrote.
Toluwanisings was known for his energetic praise songs and distinctive vocal style, which earned him a following among gospel music lovers.
Some of his popular songs include Eleda and I’m Not Alone.
His death has left colleagues and fans mourning the loss of a gospel minister whose music brought encouragement and joy to many.
