Bassey, in the post, also extended prayers to the deceased’s immediate family, his friends, and all his loved ones.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Popular gospel singer Nathaniel Bassey has expressed sadness over the passing of his colleague, Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, popularly known as Toluwanisings.
He mourned the artist, whose death shook the Nigerian Christian community, in a post shared on his official Instagram page on Friday, October 16.
Toluwanisings, who was also a songwriter and gospel music minister, reportedly passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at the age of 41.
His demise was announced on the same day by the Convener of the Coalition of Public Interest Lawyers and Advocates, Pelumi Olajengbesi, in a post shared on Instagram.
While noting that the death of Toluwanisings is not God’s plan, he wrote, “We say no to untimely death.”
Sharing the singer’s picture, Pelumi said, “My God! What a life! No, Lord! We plead for Your mercy upon Toluwanisings.
“I am deeply troubled by the deaths of young men and women. This is not God’s plan for us.”
ALSO READ: Nkechi Blessing, Foluke Daramola defend Toyin Abraham after leaked voice note saga, slam toxic fans
Reacting to news of his death, Bassey, who is one of Nigeria’s most prominent gospel artistes, shared an emotional tribute in which he expressed deep sadness over the loss.
According to him, despite never crossing paths with Toluwanisings or meeting him face-to-face, he had heard about his exploits in gospel ministration and his work for God.
Bassey went on to say that he was aware of what the late singer had been doing in music ministry and the impact he was making, describing his death as a painful reminder of how fleeting life can be.
”Always painful to hear and see young people pass at their prime,” Bassey wrote, giving voice to the grief many Nigerians have been feeling since news of Toluwanisings’ passing broke.
Even as he grieved, Bassey leaned on his faith, stating his belief that Toluwanisings is in a better place.
He extended prayers to the deceased’s immediate family, friends, and loved ones, asking that they find the strength and comfort needed to endure such a profound loss.
