The TolaOluwa Foundation has apologised for a fundraising appeal it published following the death of Nigerian gospel singer Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, popularly known as Toluwanisings, admitting that the timing of the initiative was insensitive and caused distress to the bereaved family.

The foundation issued the apology on Instagram on Friday, October 16, acknowledging that it should have obtained approval from the relevant parties before making the appeal public.

The organisation said its intention was to provide financial support for the late singer’s wife and children but admitted that it failed to consider the timing and the emotional impact of the announcement on the family, friends and fans mourning his death.

Foundation admits mistakes over fundraising appeal

In its statement, the foundation acknowledged that publishing a fundraising request so soon after the singer’s death was inappropriate.

It said it should have exercised greater caution and waited for the necessary approval before asking members of the public to contribute.

The appeal had circulated online under the title “In Loving Memory of Minister Olayemi Bayonile (Toluwanisings),” calling on sympathisers to donate towards the welfare of his wife and children.

The campaign attracted questions about its legitimacy after the singer’s family disowned the appeal and warned the public against treating it as an authorised fundraising initiative.

The family had stated that any genuine fundraising campaign connected to the late singer’s loved ones would be announced through his official social media account.

TolaOluwa Foundation defends its status

Addressing concerns raised by the controversy, the foundation maintained that it was a registered charity with the Corporate Affairs Commission and had previously provided assistance to people in need.

However, it acknowledged that its previous activities did not excuse the way it handled the fundraising appeal.

The organisation said it had contacted the relevant parties and resolved the issue.

It also pledged to respect the family’s privacy and allow them time to grieve.

The foundation further promised that any future fundraising initiative connected to the family would be guided by the family’s wishes, with clearer information about how donations would be managed.

Singer’s death prompts tributes from gospel music community

Toluwanisings died in the early hours of Wednesday, October 14, 2026, according to a statement released by his family.

The family described him as a beloved husband, relative and gospel minister under Toluwani Gospel Music Ministry.

It appealed to fans, colleagues and well-wishers to support his loved ones during the difficult period.

His death prompted tributes from gospel artistes, entertainers and fans who remembered his music and contribution to the Christian music community.

The fundraising controversy subsequently added to the distress surrounding the loss, prompting concerns about the need to obtain consent and verify donation campaigns before soliciting financial support in the name of grieving families.

Foundation apologises to bereaved family

The foundation expressed regret to Toluwanisings’ family, friends and others who were hurt by the appeal.

It also thanked members of the public who raised concerns about the campaign, saying their reactions had highlighted the need for greater care and accountability.

The apology followed the family’s public rejection of the fundraiser and the resulting questions about whether the appeal had been authorised.

The foundation has now pledged to make any future support initiative dependent on the family’s wishes and to communicate more clearly how contributions would be handled.

The episode underscores the importance of transparency, consent and sensitivity when organising charitable appeals following the death of a public figure.