Pastor Ajayi Aderogbo, the stepbrother of gospel singer Aduke Ajayi, also known as Aduke Gold, has shared details of her funeral arrangements.
In an interview clip published on Wednesday, Pastor Aderogbo spoke about his close relationship with the late singer, saying:
“I’m her elder brother and like a father to her because we share the same father but have different mothers. I began taking care of her in 1993 after the death of our father.”
He then shared the family’s burial plans, stating:
“We held a family meeting and decided that the burial would take place on the 23rd of August, with several outlined programmes. On the 21st, there will be a candlelight vigil.”
In the same interview, Pastor Ajayi dismissed rumors that fibroid surgery led to Aduke Gold’s death, revealing instead that she had been battling cervical cancer.
The death of Aduke Ajayi, known as Aduke Gold, was announced on Tuesday, August 13, following her passing on Monday.
Fellow gospel artist Esther Igbeke shared the news on social media, posting a tribute with Aduke Gold’s picture and the caption: “A general has fallen. RIP.”
Aduke Gold’s death follows the recent passing of another prominent gospel singer, Egbin Orun, who died on April 28, 2024.
Aduke was born in 1990 in Ilesha, Osun State.
At the start of her music career, she was nicknamed Aduke Penkele due to her slender frame.
She held a degree in History and International Relations from Lagos State University, along with an advanced degree in Child Psychology and a diploma in Montessori Education, among other qualifications.
Despite the competitive gospel music industry, Aduke Gold made a significant impact.
She once shared her inspiring journey on Instagram, recounting her early struggles.