The family of one of Nigeria’s most celebrated gospel music artists, Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji — professionally known by his stage name Toluwanisings — has confirmed his passing. In an official statement shared to the late singer’s official Instagram account, the family confirmed that Toluwanisings passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, October 14, at the age of 41.
As the family enters this period of grief, they have issued a heartfelt appeal to the artist’s global fanbase, asking supporters to hold Toluwanisings’ wife, young children, and extended family in their thoughts and prayers. The statement also noted that details of funeral and burial arrangements will be released to the public at a later date once the family has finalized plans.
Toluwanisings’ death comes just several months after he survived a serious road accident that he was involved in alongside several members of his touring band. No official cause of death has been released to the public as of yet.
When initial unconfirmed reports of the singer’s passing began circulating on social media earlier this week, thousands of his fans were thrown into shock and widespread panic. That anxiety only lifted once the Bolaji family issued their official confirmation to put an end to swirling rumors.
Across social platforms, fans have remembered Toluwanisings for his distinctive warm vocal tone and high-energy praise worship performances that regularly invited full crowd participation, turning ordinary concerts into immersive communal experiences. Over his decades-long career, he built a loyal following across Nigeria and beyond through hit gospel tracks including *Unreserved Praise*, *A Very Big God*, *Onibuore*, *E Lagbara*, and *Owo Re Meji Meji*.
In the wake of the official announcement, tributes have continued to flood in from fellow entertainment figures, industry colleagues, and fans alike. Notable public figures have shared their condolences, including prominent Nigerian lawyer Pelumi Olajengbesi and popular comedian Woli Agba, both of whom previously called for public prayers for the artist before his passing was confirmed.
Additional reporting on African news and culture is available at BBCAfrica.com. Audiences can follow BBC Africa’s coverage on Twitter at @BBCAfrica, Facebook at BBC Africa, and Instagram at @bbcafrica.