Family members, friends and prominent entertainers gathered at the Jogor Centre in Ibadan on Tuesday to celebrate the life and musical legacy of late gospel singer Bayonile Olayemi, popularly known as Toluwanisings.
The emotional Night of Tributes attracted hundreds of sympathisers, many dressed in white, who paid their respects to the singer, who died on October 14, leaving behind his wife and two daughters.
His widow, Damilola Olayemi, delivered an emotional tribute, expressing her grief and asking her late husband not to forget her and their children.
Gospel singer Peterson Okopi described Toluwanisings as a joyful and compassionate individual whose life positively influenced those around him.
Okopi encouraged mourners to live meaningful lives, reminding them of life’s uncertainty, while urging the deceased’s wife to remain strong in faith.
Another gospel artiste, Laolu Gbenjo, recalled how one of Toluwanisings’ songs encouraged him during a difficult period.
Gbenjo described the late singer as a peaceful, sincere and approachable person whose distinctive voice and character would be greatly missed.
Nollywood actress Bimbo Oshin also paid tribute, recalling how Toluwanisings ministered at her husband’s wake five years earlier without requesting payment.
She described him as generous and kindhearted, offering prayers for his widow and children.
Similarly, actress Yusroh Akinola, popularly known as Damilola Royal, said the singer made a lasting impact despite his relatively short life.
A member of his musical band described him as a caring leader who consistently prioritised the welfare of those around him.
Meanwhile, songwriter Oluwatosin Alao cautioned against spreading negative stories about the deceased and urged the public to respect his family during their period of mourning.
Following the singer’s death, his father, Muniru Adekunle Olayemi, reportedly disputed earlier reports that his son was 44 years old.
He clarified that Toluwanisings was born in July 1992 and was 34 at the time of his death.
The father also disclosed that the singer was originally named Sodiq before embracing Christianity.
The tribute gathering celebrated Toluwanisings’ contributions to gospel music, his generosity and the relationships he built throughout his life.
