Nigerian doctors have reacted to comments made by TVC News reporter Riyah Abdul, who criticised healthcare workers for embarking on a strike following the death of gospel singer Toluwanisings.
The singer, whose real name was Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, reportedly slumped at his home in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Wednesday, October 14, 2026. According to his personal assistant, Babadunni Gbolabo, efforts to obtain emergency medical attention proved unsuccessful after the singer was allegedly taken to seven or eight hospitals. Some facilities reportedly cited the doctors’ strike, while others allegedly declined to admit him.
Reacting to the tragedy, Abdul argued that doctors had taken an oath to save lives and should uphold that responsibility regardless of the circumstances. She maintained that medical professionals should prioritise the preservation of human life and questioned how the healthcare workers involved would feel knowing that the singer died amid the reported difficulties in accessing treatment.
Her comments, however, drew criticism from some medical professionals, who challenged her position and highlighted the concerns surrounding doctors’ working conditions and the ongoing industrial dispute.
The doctors’ strike has reignited public debate about the state of Nigeria’s healthcare system, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the impact of industrial action on patients requiring urgent medical attention.
Meanwhile, the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, has stated that its management had no official record showing that the singer was brought to the facility. The hospital also said it had resumed services following the suspension of the resident doctors’ warning strike.
Although the circumstances surrounding Toluwanisings’ final hours remain a subject of public concern, the claims about hospitals refusing him treatment have not been independently established for every facility allegedly approached. His death has renewed calls for improved emergency medical services, better working conditions for healthcare professionals and greater accountability within the health sector.
