The family of Nigerian gospel singer Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, popularly known as Toluwanisings, has confirmed his death, hours after conflicting reports about his condition sparked concern on social media.
In a statement posted on his verified Instagram page on Wednesday night, the family said the singer died in the early hours of October 14, 2026.
The statement identified him as Minister Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji of the Toluwani Gospel Music Ministry (TOGOMM), describing him as “a dearly loved husband, family member, and gospel minister”.
The family said funeral arrangements would be announced later and appealed to the public to remember his wife and children in their prayers.
The cause of death was not disclosed.
Before the family's announcement, reports circulated that the singer had slumped at his residence in Ibadan after complaining of tiredness. The reports said the incident occurred hours after he ministered at In His Presence , a monthly worship programme hosted by gospel singer Bidemi Olaoba in the city on Tuesday night. The family did not confirm these details.
The uncertainty surrounding his condition triggered emotional reactions from colleagues and fans, with some appealing to the public not to draw conclusions before an official announcement.
Lawyer Pelumi Olajengbesi, convener of the Coalition of Public Interest Lawyers and Advocates, had earlier expressed concern in an Instagram post, writing, “My God! What a life! No, Lord! We plead for Your mercy upon Toluwanisings.”
His post generated further reactions, with some social media users criticising the publication of unverified claims.
Comedian and gospel minister Woli Agba urged people to remain hopeful, writing, “Please hold on. Please do not conclude. We are trusting God. Please.”
Gospel singer Lanre Alewilese also appealed for prayers, saying, “Let's keep praying ejooorrr. We're still trusting God.”
Singer Boyebest similarly expressed hope for a positive outcome as the reports continued to circulate.
Following the family's confirmation, colleagues paid tribute to the late singer, remembering his distinctive voice and contribution to gospel music.
Woli Agba described him as “an Angel” who had passed on, praising him as a very unique voice.
Gospel artiste Mega99 also mourned the singer, describing him as a rare talent whose death represented a painful loss to the gospel music community.
Toluwanisings was born on July 8 in Osun State and built much of his following in Ibadan, where he became known for contemporary gospel music and Yoruba praise songs.
His breakthrough came in 2021 after content creator Woli Arole shared one of his songs online, helping introduce his music to a wider audience.
His songs and projects included Kos'oluwa Laye , A Very Big God and the Unreserved Praise series. He also collaborated with fellow gospel singer Adeyinka Alaseyori on the song Ase Ti Jade .
In October 2024, the singer announced the birth of his second child.
His death comes about three months after he and members of his music crew reportedly survived a road accident involving their bus and a fully loaded trailer while returning from a ministration in July 2026.
At the time, Toluwanisings described their survival as divine intervention and thanked God that nobody on his team had died in the accident.
The family has yet to announce when or where the singer will be buried. It has also not provided further details about the circumstances surrounding his death.
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