By Staff Reporter
A member of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Otunba Bisi Oyedele, popularly known as Citiside, has called for a thorough and transparent investigation into the tragic death of four young gospel artistes whose passing has sent shockwaves through the Christian and creative communities.
The deceased—Mathew Segun Ogundele, widely known as Segun Praise and the group’s lead artist; Ojo Itunu Abike, a backup singer; Bolaji, popularly called Bobo, the drummer; and Mathew Awosanya of Joes Media—were described as dedicated young creatives and gospel ministers committed to using music and media to inspire faith and hope.
In a statement released on Sunday, Oyedele expressed deep sadness and concern over the incident, describing the circumstances surrounding their deaths as “controversial and deeply troubling.” He urged the Nigeria Police Force and relevant security agencies to conduct a comprehensive investigation to establish the truth and ensure justice is served.
“I received with deep sadness and profound concern the tragic news of the death of our four young creatives and gospel ministers,” the lawmaker said. “This tragic incident calls for sober reflection and raises serious concerns that must not be ignored. I hereby call on the Nigeria Police Force and all relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough, transparent and professional investigation into the circumstances surrounding their deaths. The truth must be established and justice must be served.”
Segun Praise, the lead artist of the group, was the son of Prophet Ogundele, Parish Shepherd of the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC), Gethsemane Parish, Ogosa, Ajegunle, in Ipokia Local Government Area. Together with his team, he had reportedly been actively involved in gospel music ministry and media outreach within and beyond the church community.
Friends and associates described the late artistes as hardworking youths who devoted their talents to spreading messages of faith and encouragement through music. Their sudden deaths have sparked grief and concern among residents, church members and the wider gospel music community.
Oyedele, who represents the Ipokia/Idiroko State Constituency and chairs the House Committee on Industry, Trade and Investment, assured the public that he would closely monitor the situation until clarity is achieved. “I will remain on top of this matter until clarity is achieved and appropriate action is taken,” he stated.
He also extended condolences to the families of the deceased, the leadership and members of CCC Gethsemane Parish, and the entire gospel music community. “As the representative of the good people of Ipokia/Idiroko State constituency, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Prophet Ogundele and his family, the church, the families of the departed and their colleagues. May God grant the bereaved the strength to bear this irreparable loss and may the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace,” he said.
As investigations are awaited, the incident has prompted renewed calls for accountability and clarity, with many in the community hoping that the circumstances surrounding the deaths will be fully uncovered and addressed.
