The Nigerian gospel music community has been thrown into mourning following the death of gospel singer and choir master Kolawole Okanlawon.

Okanlawon, who served as choir master at CCC Winners Parish, Lagos State, was confirmed dead in an Instagram post shared by fellow gospel singer Esther Igbekele on Monday, October 5.

Visibly grieving, Igbekele described his passing as more than a "rude shock," recalling that they had been together recently during her last trip to the United Kingdom, which made the news even harder to process.

In her tribute, she reflected on how fragile and unpredictable life can be, while remembering the moments they shared. She also noted that the Esther Igbekele Music Organisation would deeply miss him, and that his presence would not be forgotten.

"I still find it difficult to believe that I am writing this about your demise," part of her tribute read.

Igbekele closed her message with a prayer for comfort for Okanlawon's family and all who loved him. As of the time of this report, the cause of his death has not been made public.

See the post below:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Esther Igbekele (@estherigbekele)