Korede Fasoyin, son of veteran gospel singer Deborah Fasoyin, has dismissed viral social media reports claiming that his mother has died.
Korede debunked the claim on Monday while speaking with The PUNCH, describing the circulating posts as false.
The rumour spread widely online with several posts showing the singer’s photograph alongside “RIP” inscriptions. Some users also shared condolence messages believing the report to be true.
Reacting to the situation, Korede said the family had already started preparing a video to clarify the matter and reassure concerned fans and well wishers.
“I started receiving calls from outside Nigeria and within Nigeria since midnight,, asking if she was dead. I don’t know the mischievous person who posted that without verifying,” he said.
The gospel singer marked her 86th birthday on March 1.
Fasoyin is widely known for popularising the Yoruba gospel song ‘Odun n Lo Sopin,‘ which has become a familiar end-of-year hymn in many Nigerian churches and homes.
The song was recorded in 1979 by the Christ Apostolic Church Good Women Choir in Ibadan, where she served as the choir leader. Over the decades, it has remained a staple during end of year worship and prayer gatherings, particularly in Yoruba speaking communities.
Although many people credit her with composing the song, Fasoyin has previously clarified that she did not write it, noting that the chorus had long been sung during Christ Apostolic Church revival meetings before her choir recorded it. The group later added verses before releasing the well known version.
The false report comes just days after the death of gospel singer Toun Soetan, which may have contributed to the confusion.
With more than four decades in gospel music, Fasoyin remains respected within the Christ Apostolic Church and Nigerian gospel circles for her contributions through the CAC Good Women Choir and her enduring songs.
