Islamic singer Alhaja Rukayat Gawat-Oyefeso is dead.
She was pronounced dead in the early hours of Tuesday.
The news of her passing was first shared by Ilorin-based cleric, Alfa Aribidesi At-Tawdeeh on his Facebook page.
He expressed his sorrow, writing, “Our sympathy goes to the family of Ruqayat Gawat for this great loss. May Allah forgive her shortcomings. RUQAYAT GAWAT IS GONE!”
Jubril Gawat, Senior Special Assistant on new media to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos and a relative of the deceased confirmed the news.
He tweeted, “Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return” (Quran 2:156).
Gboyega Akosile, another aide to Governor Sanwo-Olu also offered condolences.
“Ina lillahi waina ilaehi rajiun. May the Almighty Allah, who is the giver and taker of life, console the family of my dear brothers @Mr_JAGs and @tfk_gawat on the passing of our beloved sister, Rukayat.
“May Aljannah Firdaus be her permanent home. May Allah grant the family the strength to bear this irreparable loss.”
Her remains will be laid to rest later today in accordance with Islamic rites.
Rukayat Gawat-Oyefeso was celebrated for her distinct voice and soul-stirring religious songs which resonated deeply within the Muslim community.
She is survived by her husband, Alhaji Shakiri Oyefeso.
Tributes have poured in from across the country, with many expressing their grief online.
“Her songs were a source of comfort and inspiration to many,” one fan wrote on social media.
Though the exact cause of her death has not yet been disclosed, her influence on Islamic music and the impact she had on her listeners remains undisputed.
Fans and colleagues continue to mourn her as further details about her funeral are awaited.
