March 14, (THEWILL) — Veteran Nigerian gospel music icon and evangelist, Toun Soetan, popularly known as Evangelist Shouet, has died at the age of 73.
Her death was confirmed on Friday, March 13, 2026, by gospel comedian, Woli Agba, in a post shared on social media.
Announcing the development, he wrote, “The message remained the same. The lifestyle remained that which glorifies Jesus. Your transition into Glory to meet The Lord Jesus happened today.
“Our dear Legendary Mummy Toun Soetan… Mummy, sing with the Angels. Mummy, wow, goodnight. May God be with our beloved daddy and the family.”
Gospel musician Peter Olaniyi also confirmed the news, describing the late singer as a legend in Nigeria’s gospel music community.
“We just lost another legend this morning, Mummy Toun Soetan. May the Lord be with the family and Daddy Titus Soetan. Please let’s commiserate with the family”, he said.
Born Racheal Olatoun Soetan in Lagos, she grew up in a Muslim family. Her life took a major turn in 1974 after attending a revival service at Oritamefa Baptist Church, where she converted to Christianity and later joined the church choir, serving there for 14 years.
Before committing fully to music ministry, Soetan worked as a teacher for 16 years at Oritamefa Baptist School. She also served as co-proprietress of Pathfinder College in Ibadan alongside her husband, Titus Soetan.
In 1987, she founded the Trinity World Evangelical Ministry, further expanding her gospel outreach.
Over a career spanning more than four decades, Soetan became widely recognised as one of the pioneers of Yoruba gospel music. She was known for songs such as “Ke Pe Jesu,” “Cast Your Burdens,” “Train Up Your Child,” and “Darling Jesus,” which inspired generations of gospel musicians.
She is survived by her husband, Titus Soetan, family members, and a large community of gospel ministers and followers influenced by her life and ministry.
Tributes have continued to pour in from gospel artistes and admirers who described her as an inspiration and mentor in the gospel music ministry.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
