Five Gospel Artists Who Passed Away in Two Years

In churches across Nigeria, worshippers continue to lift their voices in songs created by gospel artists whose presence is now absent, reminding the community of the profound losses suffered in recent years.

Several gospel ministers have passed away under various circumstances recently, resulting in significant upheaval within the Christian community. These deaths have opened up conversations about the difficulties faced by gospel musicians, their personal health, and the level of support available to them.

Among the first tragic losses was Aduke Gold, born Aduke Ajayi, who succumbed to cervical cancer at the age of 35 in August 2024. She was celebrated for her vibrant worship performances and often communicated her messages in Yoruba. Aduke Gold used church concerts and social media to broaden her audience, and her untimely death came just as her career appeared poised for greater heights. Colleagues highlighted her dedication to her ministry and her commitment to transmitting spirituality through music.

The industry mourned again in April 2025 with the passing of Big Bolaji, at the age of 50, following an undisclosed illness. A pastor and worship leader, he was known for his high-energy praise sessions, significant church events, and mentoring endeavors. Many regarded him as a devoted individual who contributed immensely to the growth of younger gospel artists.

By June 2025, Israel Terhemba Ikyereve, known widely as “New Jerusalem,” passed away at 53, with the specifics of his death remaining undisclosed. Based in Benue State, he gained respect for incorporating Tiv musical elements into gospel tunes, weaving local cultural nuances with Christian themes, endearing himself to congregations in northern Nigeria.

In January 2026, singer Bunmi Akinnaanu died at the age of 46 following a prolonged illness. Renowned for her hit song “Omije Ojumi,” she made her mark in many Yoruba-speaking churches. Prior to her full commitment to ministry, she worked in banking, serving as an inspiration for many balancing secular careers with their spiritual vocations.

The gospel community faced another shock in March 2026 with the loss of Taiwo Adegbodu, one half of the Adegbodu Twins. Alongside his twin brother Kehinde, he established a ministry that spanned various states and led revival meetings. Their harmonious performances and engaging presence made them favorites among churchgoers. The cause of Taiwo’s death has yet to be made public.

Among the shocking incidents this year was the death of performer Matthew Ogundele and three members of his team, discovered deceased in a studio in the Abraham Adesanya area of Ajah, Lagos State. Reports indicate that Ogundele had performed at a joyous celebration and decided to stay overnight at the studio due to the late hour. Concern arose the next day when repeated knocks went unanswered, leading to a forced entry by the studio owner, who found all four individuals lifeless. The police have confirmed the incident and are actively investigating the cause of their deaths.

These recent tragedies come on the heels of the deaths of two major figures in gospel music in 2022: Sammie Okposo, who passed away at 51, and Osinachi Nwachukwu. Their departures prompted discussions surrounding the stresses that gospel ministers encounter and the challenges within the industry, with Osinachi’s death highlighting issues such as domestic violence and the vulnerability of women in ministry.

These ongoing losses not only bring grief but also have prompted urgent discussions regarding welfare within the gospel music community.

Mary Odina, a civil servant in Abuja, expressed to Weekend Trust that gospel artists must prioritize their health as they often perform within churches on Sundays while managing numerous other responsibilities in their lives.

"Many of them travel frequently for church events, concerts, and crusades," she explained. "They sometimes transition from one city to another without adequate rest. Such a lifestyle can take a toll on anyone’s health. Regular medical checkups and time set aside to rest should be a priority for them."

She emphasized the need to recognize that gospel ministers are human and also contend with physical strains.

"People assume they are always resilient because they are ministers; they are still human beings. Prioritizing physical health is essential to sustain their ministry long-term," she added.

Student Ngozi Eze highlighted the need for a stronger support system for gospel artists to manage their careers and ministries effectively.

"Many are exceptionally gifted but tend to shoulder every responsibility alone—acting as singer, manager, event organizer, and even driver," she mentioned.

According to her, a structured management system could alleviate pressures and allow them to focus on their primary calling more effectively, suggesting that better organization would empower artists in aspects of time management, health care, and financial planning.

Uber driver Chinedu Okafor advised gospel artists to consider long-term financial security and planning.

"Many frequently travel and perform in various churches but may neglect their future needs," he pointed out.

He believes that a focus on financial planning can help gospel ministers navigate financial challenges later in life, recommending that artists should save and invest during their active years to secure their families and themselves for the future.

Choral leader Frances Udeme emphasized the role of church communities in supporting gospel artists, suggesting that churches and Christian organizations can establish systems to assist these ministers, especially in times of need.

"These musicians contribute greatly to worship and spiritual life in the church, yet their welfare is often overlooked," she noted.

Udeme argued that well-defined support structures can enhance care when an artist faces illness or personal challenges, advocating for the recognition of gospel artists as individuals in need of care and encouragement by the church community.

An Abuja pastor reiterated the importance for gospel artists to approach their ministry with spiritual dedication paired with practical strategies.

"While gospel music is a ministry, it also demands structure and discipline," he asserted. "Artists must learn to organize their lives and careers effectively while having trustworthy advisers and support teams to balance their professional and personal health."

He highlighted that the church also has a significant role in supporting those who minister through music.

"Gospel artists bring blessings through their songs, and the church community should be proactive in ensuring their wellbeing and promoting systems that foster their growth in their spiritual journeys," he concluded.