Gospel singer Bidemi Olaoba has paid an emotional tribute to his late colleague, Olayemi Bolaji, popularly known as Toluwanisings, recalling their final moments together during a worship concert in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Toluwanisings died on Wednesday after reportedly collapsing at his residence. His death was announced by his family amid reports that he was turned away by several hospitals before he was eventually confirmed dead.
The gospel minister’s death came just a day after he performed at the In His Presence worship concert organised by Olaoba in Ibadan.
In a tribute shared on Instagram alongside a video of Toluwanisings ministering at the event, Olaoba expressed regret that he had not known it would be their final time together on 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,” he wrote.
Olaoba said his colleague’s death would not erase the impact of his ministry, pointing to the lives touched by his music and the people he brought closer to God.
“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,” he added.
The singer acknowledged the depth of the loss but said his Christian faith offered comfort amid the grief.
“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,” Olaoba wrote.
He concluded his tribute by honouring Toluwanisings’ dedication to gospel music and his faith.
“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,” he said.
Toluwanisings was known for his gospel song Kabiesi Olorun Ayo, which contributed to his recognition among gospel music audiences.
