Nigerian comedian and gospel minister Ayo Ajewole, popularly known as Woli Agba, has confirmed the death of rising gospel singer Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, widely known as Toluwanisings, following hours of uncertainty surrounding his reported condition.
The confirmation came through an emotional Instagram tribute in which Woli Agba described the singer’s passing as a painful loss to the gospel music community.
In the post titled “Sunset at Midday,” the entertainer reflected on the suddenness of death and the impact Toluwanisings had made through his music.
Describing him as a gifted vocalist whose songs brought comfort and inspiration to listeners, Woli Agba lamented that his promising career had ended prematurely.
“An angel just passed on,” he wrote, adding that a unique voice had unexpectedly fallen silent.
The tribute marked a change from Woli Agba’s earlier response to reports of the singer’s death.
When speculation emerged on Wednesday, the comedian had urged members of the public not to conclude that Toluwanisings had died, explaining that prayers were continuing for his recovery.
Other gospel musicians, including Boyebest, had similarly expressed hope that the situation would improve.
However, Woli Agba’s subsequent announcement confirmed the fears of supporters who had been following developments.
The first public reports of the singer’s death emerged after lawyer Pelumi Olajengbesi, convener of the Coalition of Public Interest Lawyers and Advocates, shared a photograph of Toluwanisings on Instagram alongside a message mourning the loss of young Nigerians.
According to Leadership, preliminary accounts suggested that the singer had collapsed in his apartment and was subsequently reported to be in critical condition.
The exact circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, with no official explanation from his family or management at the time of the report.
Originally from Ikirun in Osun State, Toluwanisings had developed a following within Nigeria’s gospel music scene through his energetic worship performances and distinctive vocal delivery.
His songs, including “Kabiyesi Olorun Ayo,” gained recognition at church gatherings and gospel concerts.
Beyond music, he was reportedly trained as an estate surveyor and valuer.
His death comes approximately three months after he survived a road accident involving his crew in July.
Their vehicle was reportedly nearly crushed by a loaded trailer while returning from a church programme. Toluwanisings subsequently shared photographs of the damaged bus and expressed gratitude for surviving the incident.
There is no confirmed connection between that accident and his death.
Meanwhile, Woli Agba’s tribute has attracted thousands of reactions, with fans, colleagues and fellow gospel ministers expressing grief and offering condolences.
The comedian prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved family, ending his message with a farewell to the singer: “Sing with the Angels, Bro.”
