Efforts to save gospel singer Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, popularly known as ToluwaniSings, were unsuccessful after he was reportedly taken to between seven and eight hospitals in Ibadan, Oyo State, following a sudden collapse, his personal assistant, Babadunni Olayemi, has said.
Babadunni, who narrated the circumstances surrounding the singer’s death, said some hospitals cited an ongoing doctors’ strike, while others allegedly declined to admit him for treatment.
ToluwaniSings died on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, a day after reportedly performing at a worship event. He was known for gospel songs, including A Very Big God and Onibuore.
Speaking on Thursday, Babadunni said he was not present when the singer slumped in the morning but rushed to the scene after receiving a phone call.
He explained that the singer had appeared to be in good health before the incident, adding that those present had attempted to revive him before rushing him to different hospitals for medical attention.
According to him, the search for medical assistance proved unsuccessful despite efforts to secure admission at several facilities.
“Some said doctors were not working because of the strike. Some did not admit him at all. That is how it went. We tried our best, including prayers. We took him to up to seven to eight hospitals in Ibadan, but God said his time was up,” he said.
The aide’s account has raised concerns about the challenges encountered in securing emergency medical care, particularly when hospitals are unable or unwilling to admit patients in critical conditions.
However, the circumstances surrounding the singer’s collapse and the medical reasons for his death had not been established in the account.
Babadunni added that the singer’s remains had been deposited at a mortuary, while the family was expected to determine the next steps after consultations.
He said family members were present and would decide on the arrangements after holding a meeting.
“The family members are here. So, we are all just managing the situation, as the body is currently at the mortuary. Once the family members hold their meeting and are clear on things, that is when we will know the next step to take,” he said.
The singer’s death was earlier confirmed by his family.
ToluwaniSings built a following among gospel music lovers and worshippers through his songs, which were widely associated with Christian worship and praise.
His death has left fans and members of the gospel music community mourning the loss of a singer whose music had become familiar in worship settings.
