The Nigerian gospel music industry has been plunged into mourning following the death of renowned singer Taiwo Adegbodu, one half of the famous Adegbodu Twins, whose spiritually uplifting songs shaped Yoruba gospel music for more than two decades.
News of his passing emerged in the early hours of Sunday after an emotional statement was shared on the duo’s official Facebook fan page, managed by their team.
The announcement immediately triggered widespread reactions, with fans, church leaders and fellow gospel musicians expressing shock and grief across Nigeria and among diaspora worship communities.
In a deeply emotional message believed to be from the family, the pain of the sudden loss was laid bare.
“Taiwo, why will you leave your kids and me without notification? My heart is bleeding. Lord, how do you want me to cope without him? God why? This is too much for me to bear!” the statement read.
As of the time of filing this report, details surrounding the cause of death had not been made public.
Tributes have continued to pour in, including from popular gospel artiste Esther Igbekele, who confirmed the development on Instagram.
Sharing a photograph of the late singer, she wrote in Yoruba, “Erin wo, Ajanaku sun bi oke. Hard to bear. Goodnight, bro,” a culturally rich expression reflecting the depth of sorrow within the close-knit gospel fraternity.
Taiwo rose to prominence alongside his twin brother, Kehinde Adegbodu, after the release of their debut album Faratimi (Lean on Me) in 1999.
The project resonated strongly with Christian audiences and quickly established the brothers as household names across southwestern Nigeria.
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Known for blending biblical teachings with traditional Yoruba rhythms, the duo carved a distinctive identity within Nigeria’s gospel landscape.
Their catalogue featured widely celebrated worship songs such as Shower Your Blessing, God Concert, and Emi Mimo, many of which became staples at revival programmes and church gatherings.
Beyond music ministry, the twins also played roles in cultural promotion and governance.
In recognition of their influence within the entertainment sector, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke appointed them as Special Advisers on Entertainment and Tourism.
Taiwo’s death comes barely six weeks after the passing of another gospel singer, Bunmi Akinnaanu, popularly known as Omije Ojumi, further deepening concerns and sorrow within Nigeria’s Christian music community.
Churches, music ministers and admirers continue to remember Taiwo as a devoted worshipper whose music inspired faith, hope and spiritual reflection among generations of listeners.