Celebrities mourn Eric Arubayi

Industry colleagues, fans and well-wishers have not stopped pouring heart-felt messages on social media on the demise of the late West Africa Idol finalist and Nigerian gospel singer, Eric Odafe Arubayi Jnr.

Eric was said to have died on February 11 during a brief illness.

The West African Idol finalist died at the age of 34, days after celebrating his third wedding anniversary.

There is the report that he died after unknowingly taking expired drugs meant to treat his malaria.

Celebrities have continued to pen their tributes to the late singer, who was shot to limelight after he emerged as one of the finalists at the West African Idols in 2007. His debut album, Redefined, launched in 2011 in Lagos also positioned him as a gospel singer.

Singer, Nikki Laoye turning to her social media handle wrote: “Where are you, EricArubayi? My brother, my friend, I left you here safe and healthy before I travelled to the US in December.. Came back, Kept Checking on you, and was yet to see you face to face in 2017… But now I won’t have that chance anymore cause you have flown away.

“Just like that… Ehnnn!!! So much running through my head , too many memories… We’ve been thru a lot together over the past 10 years and counting……… Co-Worship Leaders at House on the Rock Church, we’ve traveled many cities together, ministered together … A true brother indeed, can’t ever forget how you rushed to my side the morning my dad passed away and you stayed the whole day with my family.

“Always looking for my trouble, blunt and never afraid to tell me that truth even when it hurts… What about our many choir wardrobe fights… Who would disturb me now?”

“Your unreleased videos nko, your album.. Too many plans in the oven….. Your wife, Your Son???? There’s just too much, Too much running through my head.”

Renowned gospel singer, Sammie Okposo, also mourned the late singer. He wrote:  “Oh lord my God, Help us in this time Please help us lord”

Nigerian veteran rapper, Ruggedman, wrote, “Wow! Eric! Wow! May your soul rest brother….”

Another Nigerian celebrity that has sent his condolences is Obiora Obiwon, who wrote, “Aaaaaarrgh a General struck down! Just look at this fine young man! But you know what, His soul is the finest cause He gave it to Lord long ago! Along with his talent! Devil ntooooooorrrrr you lost this one!!! He’s in the best place ever in the universe! Rest in the Lord’s Bosom Eric Sing for Him eternally till we join you over there! I celebrate your salvation and ministry!Adieu!!! #Prayers For your young family. The good Lord will heal and comfort them. By His mercy your wife will not lose her faith! In Jesus’ Name. Amen!We miss your quality and excellence!”

Meanwhile the family of Eric Odafe Arubayi during the week released official statement confirming his death as well as the commencement of funeral activities.

His elderly brother, Dereck Arubayi, wrote: “Today we celebrate the life and Glorious Ascension of our father, husband, brother, son and friend, Eric Arubayi, who went to be with the Lord on Saturday, 11th February 2017. We are truly honoured that God chose us as the channel through which he released such a wonderful, helping and inspiring gift to the world.