Renowned Nigerian Islamic singer, Rukayat Gawat Oyefeso, has passed away. Known for her soulful voice and spiritually uplifting songs, Gawat had a strong following within the Muslim community. The news of her death was first announced by Islamic cleric Alfa Aribidesi At-Tawdeeh on his Facebook page on Tuesday morning.
Her brother, Jubril Gawat, who serves as the Senior Special Assistant on New Media to the Lagos State Governor, confirmed the tragic news on X (formerly Twitter) with a Quranic verse: “Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return” (Q 2:156). This has led to an outpouring of condolences from her followers and associates.
Gawat was the daughter of Alhaji Rasaq Aremu Gawat, a well-known Islamic broadcaster who mysteriously disappeared in 2012, a loss that she said motivated her throughout her career. Married to Alhaji Shakiri Oyefeso, Rukayat hailed from Igbaja, Kwara State, though she was born in Lagos Island.
Her passing has deeply impacted the Islamic music scene, with fans and colleagues, including Alhaja Misturah Aderounmu (TeminiSuccess1), expressing their grief. Further details regarding her death and burial have not yet been confirmed.
