Popular Nigerian gospel singer Busola Oke, widely known as Eleyele, has stirred emotions online after breaking down in tears while speaking about her struggles and the challenges facing her music career.
In an emotional livestream on Tuesday, the veteran singer lamented that good music no longer receives the recognition it deserves, expressing deep frustration over her current situation. Her outburst followed the recent death of gospel singer Bunmi Omije Ojumi.
“Good music doesn’t sell anymore. How can someone eat when there’s no food? How can you drive when there’s no car? How can you be at peace when there’s no peace? How can you feel less alone when you’re all by yourself?” she said tearfully.
The singer also spoke about feeling abandoned, revealing that many people who once surrounded her have disappeared during her difficult times.
“When things were going well, so many people were around. But now that there’s nothing, you don’t see anyone anymore — no colleagues, no friends, no family… nobody,” she added.
Oke’s message reflects a wider struggle confronting many Nigerian gospel artistes, who often rely on church invitations, physical album sales, and live ministrations—revenue streams significantly affected by economic hardship and the dominance of mainstream commercial music.
While Oke did not explicitly confirm her retirement, her remarks fueled speculation about a possible hiatus from active music ministry. As of the time of this report, she had not issued any further statement clarifying her next move.
Her emotional outburst sparked reactions online, with fans and well-wishers expressing sympathy and calling for support. Several social media users reposted portions of the livestream, urging industry stakeholders to check in on her.
“Switch careers and move forward, everyone goes through different phases in life. We keep moving, no matter what,” one user commented.
Another advised, “Diversify mama, God didn’t promise us easy life, we are all struggling one way or the other. Fame comes and go, reason why when you are in the limelight make use of it to prepare for days like this.”
