Nigerian gospel singer Bidemi Olaoba has expressed grief over the death of his colleague, Olayemi Bolaji, popularly known as Toluwanisings, recalling his final ministration at a worship service in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The family of Bolaji announced his death on Wednesday after he reportedly slumped at his residence and was later confirmed dead, amid reports that several hospitals had allegedly rejected him.
The incident occurred a day after the late singer performed at the ‘In His Presence’ worship service organised by Olaoba in Ibadan.
In a Facebook post featuring a video of the deceased’s performance at the event, on Sunday, Olaoba said the death of the singer, popularly known for his song ‘Kabiesi Olorun Ayo’, had left an immeasurable void.
“Your departure has left a void that words can hardly express. Yet, in the midst of our grief, we find comfort in the hope of eternity and the assurance that, for those who are in Christ, death is not the end.
“Rest on, God’s General. You fought the good fight, finished your race, and kept the faith. Your voice may have fallen silent on earth, but the sound of your worship and the legacy of your devotion to God will never be forgotten,” Olaoba wrote.
Reflecting on their last encounter, the singer said he would have held his colleague longer and allowed him more time to minister if he had known it would be his final appearance on stage.
“If only I had known that your last ministration would be your final one before you joined the saints in glory, I would have held you a little longer, embraced you a little tighter, and given you the entire night to praise your God and pour out your heart before Him, just as you loved to do.
“ToluwaniSings, your earthly journey may have ended, but your ministry lives on. The souls you won for the Kingdom, the lives you touched through your music, and the seeds you faithfully sowed in God’s vineyard will continue to bear fruit and speak for generations to come,” Olaoba added.
Other gospel artistes also took to social media to mourn the late singer and express their shock over his death.
Gospel singer Pelumi Deborah recalled their recent interaction, describing the loss as difficult to comprehend.
“Three days ago, we laughed. Today, you’re a memory. An unfinished conversation, a goodbye we never said, a heart struggling to understand how quickly ‘see you later’ can become ‘rest in peace.’ Life is fragile! Till we meet again, Uncle T,” she wrote.
Similarly, gospel singer Dare Melody described Bolaji’s death as a “rude shock”, saying the news remained difficult to believe.
“This one hits differently. It still feels so unreal. Even in our pain, we judge You faithful, Lord. Rest well, God’s soldier. Until we meet again,” he stated.