Family, Friends Hold Candlelight Procession For Toluwanisings

Family members, friends and fans of late Nigerian gospel minister Olayemi Bayonle Bolaji, popularly known as Toluwanisings, on Tuesday held a candlelight procession in his honour, a week after his death.

The procession, held on October 20, 2026, brought mourners together to pay tribute to the singer, who died on October 14 at the age of 41.

Pictures from the gathering, shared by BBC Yoruba, showed mourners dressed in black and carrying a framed photograph of the late gospel minister as they remembered his life and ministry.

Toluwanisings’ death was confirmed by his family in a statement posted on his verified social media accounts. The family said he died in the early hours of October 14 but did not disclose the cause of death.

In the statement, the family described him as a beloved husband, family member and gospel minister, while appealing to the public to keep his wife and loved ones in their prayers.

His death prompted tributes from fans and fellow gospel artistes, while some gospel music organisers cancelled or postponed events in his honour.

The family has scheduled a night of tributes and service of songs for Tuesday, October 27, at the Hall of Grace, Jogor Centre, Ibadan, Oyo State.

The programme is expected to bring together family members, friends, colleagues and admirers to celebrate his life and musical ministry.