Nigerian gospel singer Bidemi Olaoba has expressed sadness over the death of his colleague, Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, popularly known as Toluwanisings, while recalling his final ministration.

The family of Mr Bolaji on Wednesday announced his passing after he reportedly slumped in his residence and was confirmed dead following claims that different hospitals rejected him.

The incident occurred a day after he sang at ‘In His Presence’ worship service organised by Mr Olaoba in Ibadan, Oyo State. 

Recalling the ministration in a Facebook post featuring a video of the late singer’s performance at the service, Mr Olaoba said the death of the ‘Kabiesi Olorun Ayo’ singer left a void words cannot express.

“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,” Mr Olaoba stated. 

Speaking further, Mr Olaoba stated that he would have embraced the deceased more tightly and extended the duration of his ministration had he known it would be his final appearance on the 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,” Mr Olaoba added. 

Other gospel artists including Pelumi Deborah mourned the singer, saying “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.”

Also, gospel singer, Dare Melody, described the incident as a “rude shock,” adding “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.”