Ibraheem Luqman, an Allied Peoples Movement (APM) senatorial candidate in Osun State, has made a generous offer to the family of late gospel singer Toluwanisings. He has pledged to provide two years' accommodation for the singer's father, Muniru Adekunle Olayemi, and to sponsor the education of Toluwanisings' two children through higher institution level. This offer comes after a viral video showed Olayemi's dilapidated one-room home in Ikirun, Osun State.
The offer was made through a statement issued by Luqman's campaign organisation on Wednesday, titled "Ibraheem Adekunle Offers Housing, Scholarships to Late Toluwanisings' Family." According to the statement, Luqman sent a team to Ikirun to meet Olayemi and inform him of his commitment to supporting the family. The visit was described as a condolence call. The team offered to relocate Olayemi to decent accommodation within Ikirun, with the arrangement set to last for at least two years.
Luqman's campaign organisation stated that the gesture reflects his concern for vulnerable people and his belief that community responsibility should be part of public service. The offer follows a viral video of Olayemi's home, which showed dilapidated sections of the one-room house. The footage drew sympathy and criticism from Nigerians who questioned whether it was appropriate to show a grieving family's living conditions.
Toluwanisings, whose real name is Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, died on October 14 after reportedly slumping at his home in Ibadan. His death has been followed by a dispute within the family over where he should be buried. Olayemi has said he wants his son buried in the house he built or taken to Ikirun to lie beside his late mother, while the singer's widow, Akanbi Elizabeth, has reportedly preferred a cemetery.
Relatives have also called for an investigation into the circumstances of Toluwanisings' death. The family has launched a support fund titled "A Call for Love & Support" to help the widow and children. At the time of filing, it was not clear whether Olayemi had accepted Luqman's offer. The APM candidate's gesture has been seen as a kind act, especially given his background as an Ikirun-born philanthropist.
Luqman is the APM candidate for Osun Central senatorial district. His campaign organisation has been actively engaging with the community, and this offer is seen as part of his efforts to demonstrate his commitment to the people of Osun State. The offer has been well-received by some members of the community, who have praised Luqman for his kindness and generosity.
The support for Toluwanisings' family comes as a relief, especially given the financial burden of losing a loved one. Luqman's offer has not only provided financial assistance but also emotional support to the family during this difficult time. The community is expected to continue rallying around the family as they navigate this challenging period.
Key points
- Ibraheem Luqman offers two years' accommodation to Toluwanisings' father and full scholarships to the late singer's two children.
- The offer follows a viral video showing Toluwanisings' father's dilapidated one-room home in Ikirun, Osun State.
- Toluwanisings' family has been dealing with a dispute over his burial arrangements and an investigation into the circumstances of his death.
