Nigerian Islamic singer Rukayat Gawat Oyefeso passed away recently, and her burial was held today in Ijebu Aiyepe, Ogun State. A Solatul Janazzah, or Prayer for the Dead, took place earlier this morning in Ojota, Lagos State, and the ceremony was streamed live on TikTok, allowing fans and followers to join in mourning.
According to YAYI TV, a popular Islamic channel on YouTube and social media, the final prayer and burial service commenced at noon in Ijebu Aiyepe.
Rukayat's brother, Jubril Gawat, who serves as the Senior Special Assistant on New Media to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, expressed his sorrow on his X account, quoting a verse from the Quran: "Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return." (Q 2 V 156).
The late singer was celebrated for her powerful voice and uplifting religious music, which resonated deeply within the Muslim community. Notably, she had recently marked the 12-year remembrance of her father, Aremu Gawat, a prominent Islamic broadcaster who went missing in July 2012.
Rukayat Gawat will be greatly missed by her fans and loved ones. May Allah rest her soul.