Renowned Nigerian gospel singer, Deborah Adebola Fasoyin, has dismissed widespread rumours of her death, assuring fans and the Christian community that she is alive and in good health.
The 86-year-old gospel icon made the clarification in a video message released on Monday following a flood of “RIP” posts and condolence messages that circulated across social media platforms earlier in the day.
Mrs. Fasoyin, popularly known for the evergreen gospel classic Odun n Lo Sopin, described the reports of her death as false and urged the public to disregard the misinformation.
“I am hale and hearty,” she said in the video. “I will finish strong and empty with supernatural sound health. I will go to my Father in peace, not in sickness, not in pain.”
The veteran gospel minister expressed appreciation to those who reached out in concern but cautioned against spreading unverified information on social media.
Her son, Korede Fasoyin, also condemned the rumours, describing them as the handiwork of mischievous individuals.
According to him, the family had received numerous distress calls from friends, relatives and admirers both within Nigeria and abroad since midnight following the circulation of the false reports.
“My mother is alive and doing well,” he said, adding that the family decided to release the video message to reassure the public and put the speculation to rest.
Mrs. Fasoyin, who celebrated her 86th birthday on March 1, is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Nigerian gospel music.
As the leader of the C.A.C. Good Women Choir, she led the group to prominence in the late 1970s with spiritually uplifting Yoruba gospel songs that gained nationwide recognition.
Her signature song Odun n Lo Sopin remains one of the most beloved gospel tracks in Nigeria, traditionally played across the country during end-of-year thanksgiving and crossover services.
Mrs. Fasoyin currently resides in Ibadan, where she continues to inspire younger gospel ministers and remains active in Christian ministry and mentorship.
