President Muhammadu Buhari has extended heartfelt condolences to the Fasasi family on the death of singer and songwriter, Olanrewaju Fasasi, popularly known as Sound Sultan.

Sound Sultan died on Sunday after “a hard fought battle with Angioimmunoblastic T-cell Lymphoma,” his family announced on Sunday. He was buried in New Jersey, U.S. the same day according to Muslim rites.

In a statement signed on Monday by his special adviser on Media, Femi Adesina, President Buhari said Sound Sultan lived and exemplary life and his death is a loss not only to the entertainment industry, but to the country as a whole.

The statement read: “President Muhammadu Buhari extends heartfelt condolences to the Fasasi family on the death of renowned singer and songwriter, Olanrewaju Fasasi, popularly known as Sound Sultan, aged 44.

“The President notes that Sound Sultan’s demise is not only a loss to the Nigerian music industry, but to the country as a whole.

“As a celebrated rapper, singer, songwriter, actor, he lived an exemplary life, achieved several milestones in his career, and contributed greatly to the development of the Nigerian music and entertainment industry through his artistic genius, creativity, and talent, which has inspired many young Nigerians in the industry.

“The deceased, President Buhari affirms, was kind, generous, and deeply passionate about issues in the country, which reflected in his music and art, and as an avid basketball fan, he made telling contributions to the development of local basketball in the country.

“The President prays for the eternal repose of the soul of the departed and divine peace and comfort for the family, friends, and associates.”