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| Late Olaoluwa Dare Lawal |
With hearts heavy with grief, yet anchored in the hope of our faith, we share the devastating news of the passing of Olaoluwa Dare Lawal, a gifted set designer and cherished member of our gospel filmmaking family.
On May 31, 2025, at Boun Village, Simawa, Ogun State, Ola was called home to rest in the arms of our Heavenly Father, leaving a void that words cannot fill.
Ola was a beacon of creativity and dedication, pouring his heart into crafting sets that brought stories of God’s love to life.
That fateful day, as he worked tirelessly by the riverside, a sudden splash marked the moment he was taken from us.
His assistant and crew members raised the alarm. Crew members and local fishermen divers searched tirelessly for hours.
Despite our fervent prayers, Ola’s lifeless body was recovered on Monday June 2, 2025, and, in accordance with his family’s wishes, he was laid to rest, surrounded by his loving family.
As a gospel film community, we are bound by faith, love, and the belief that even in our deepest pain, God is near. Ola’s loss has shaken us all.
I, Bola Akande, devastated by the sad and ugly incident, have been under medical care, grappling with the shock of losing a son in the Lord whose professionalism, laughter and passion lit up our sets.
We mourn not just a colleague, but a son, a friend, and a vessel of God’s purpose.
To Ola’s family, we extend our deepest love and prayers, trusting that the God of all comfort will uphold you. We honour your request for privacy and stand with you in shielding Ola’s memory from sensationalism. Out of respect for Olaoluwa, the family doesn't want media sensationalism due to his age, and we have respected this request.
Even during our condolence visit to the family, Ola’s father re-emphasized privacy and a strong warning to those carrying fake news around. During our visit, your strength inspired us, and we pledge to protect the dignity of your son’s legacy.
To our Nigerian audience, whose love for gospel films fuels our work, we share your sorrow. Ola’s life touched countless hearts through the stories we tell, stories of redemption, hope, and God’s unending grace. We hear your concerns and understand the pain that fuels them.
Let us assure you that safety is our priority, and every possible step was taken to find Ola. Filming has been paused, and we have gathered in silence and prayer, seeking God’s peace.
We invite you to join us in celebrating Ola’s life. Let us flood our hearts with prayers for his family, share memories of his work, and commit to carrying his passion forward. In the spirit of the gospel we proclaim, let us choose love over anger. Unity over division, and faith over despair. Ola’s light continues to shine in every frame he crafted, reminding us that God’s purpose endures.
Thank you to the local divers, police, fire fighters, medical personnel, clergymen, cast, crew, the Baale and Chiefs of Boun Village, Simawa and all who searched and prayed. Your support is a testament to the strength of our community.
As we heal, we ask for your understanding and grace. May Olaoluwa’s soul rest in perfect peace, and may his memory be a blessing to us all.
In Christ’s love,
Bola Akande
Film Producer
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