Toluwanisings: Foundation Apologises Over ‘Insensitive’ Fundraiser

The TolaOluwa Foundation has apologised over a fundraising appeal published shortly after the death of Nigerian gospel singer Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, popularly known as Toluwanisings, describing the timing of the initiative as insensitive.

The foundation issued the apology on Friday following public criticism of an appeal seeking donations to support the late singer’s wife and children.

In a statement shared on social media, the organisation said its intention was to provide assistance to the bereaved family but acknowledged that the appeal had caused distress among relatives, friends and others mourning the singer.

“Our intention was to offer support to his wife and children. However, we recognise that posting an appeal so soon after his passing was insensitive and caused distress at a time when his family, friends and community are grieving,” the foundation said.

It admitted that it should have considered the timing and possible consequences of the announcement more carefully and waited for approval from the relevant parties before publishing it.

The controversy followed the circulation of a fundraising flyer bearing the singer’s photograph and requesting public donations for his family.

Toluwanisings’ official social media account had earlier disowned the appeal, describing it as untrue and urging followers to report the page responsible. The family indicated that any legitimate fundraising initiative would be announced through the singer’s official platform.

The development prompted concerns over whether the appeal had been authorised by the family.

Responding to questions about its legitimacy, the TolaOluwa 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 past charitable activities did not excuse the way it handled the fundraising announcement.

“Nonetheless, we take responsibility for how we communicated on this occasion,” it said.

The organisation added that it had contacted the relevant parties and resolved the matter. It also pledged to respect the family’s privacy and allow them time to grieve.

The foundation said any future support initiative involving the family would be guided by the family’s wishes, with clearer communication about how donations would be managed.

It apologised to the singer’s relatives, loved ones and members of the public who were hurt by the appeal, while thanking those who raised concerns about the post.

Toluwanisings’ death was announced by his family on October 14, prompting tributes from fans and members of Nigeria’s gospel music community. Funeral arrangements were expected to be communicated by the family.