Nigerian gospel music icon, Toun Soetan has died at the age of 73.
She was said to have died on Friday in Ibadan where she lived for years.
Her demise was confirmed by comedian Woli Agba in a post shared on social media.
He wrote, “The message remained the same. The lifestyle remained that which glorifies Jesus. Your transition into Glory to meet The Lord Jesus happened today.
“Our dear Legendary Mummy Toun Soetan… Mummy, sing with the Angels. Mummy, wow, goodnight. May God be with our beloved daddy and the family.”
“We just lost another legend this morning, Mummy Toun Soetan. May the Lord be with the family and Daddy Titus Soetan. Please let’s commiserate with the family,” musician Peter Olaniyi said.
Racheal Olatoun Soetan was born in Lagos, the late gospel minister grew up in the Beere–Oke Are area of Ibadan. She was one of 28 children in her family and was originally raised in a Muslim background.
Her spiritual journey took a new turn in 1974 after she attended a revival service at Oritamefa Baptist Church, where she had a profound Christian experience that later shaped her music ministry.
Before fully committing to ministry, Soetan worked as a teacher for 16 years at Oritamefa Baptist School. She later became co-proprietress of Pathfinder College, a school founded by her husband, while continuing her music and ministry work.
Over a career spanning four decades, she became widely recognised as one of Nigeria’s pioneering gospel singers, known for spiritually themed songs such as “Train Up Your Child” and “Darling Jesus.”
She also acted in few movies of Mount Zion Film Ministries International.
Her music is characterised by strong biblical messages and great melody, inspiring generations of gospel musicians and worshippers across Nigeria.
Soetan is survived by her husband, Titus Soetan, family members and a large community of gospel ministers and followers influenced by her life and ministry.
She has been eulogized by gospel artistes and fans as an inspiration and mentor to many in the music ministry.
“Mama, heaven’s gain. The only time I had the opportunity to minister alongside Mummy Toun Soetan was a moment I cherished so much,” Gospel artiste Bukola Omowaye said.
Bukola added that Soetan’s teachings at worship gatherings and music programmes helped strengthen her Christian faith and ministry.
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