Derrick Arubayi, the younger brother of late gospel singer, Eric Arubayi, whose painful death occurred on Saturday 11th February 2017, has revealed what led to the death of his brother.
Confirming the demise of the gospel artist in an exclusive chat with Vanguard, Derrick explained that Eric took ill after taking an expired drug meant to treat his malaria and typhoid ailment.
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“He had malaria and typhoid, which was untreated. It later became worse after he took a medication that had expired and this triggered his liver ailment and afterward, every other thing just followed at a fast pace before his death. The only thing that we had to say is that he lived for Christ.
“We just want the world to know that the name Eric Odafe Arubayi was for a reason beyond the West Africa Idol show. For that reason, God would make manifest even beyond his glorious ascension.”
Nigeria entertainment industry, as well as the whole nation, was thrown into mourning Saturday night when the sad news of the death of Eric Arubayi Jnr, the West African Idols 2007 3rd runner-up and son of the former Vice Chancellor of Delta State University, Abraka, Professor Eric Arubayi, broke the internet.
The gospel singer who was also an active member of House On The Rock Church and a lead singer of the church choir died on at the DELSU Teaching Hospital. Eric was said to have complained of feeling weak and was rushed to the hospital where he was confirmed dead.
All You Should Know About Eric Arubayi
Eric Arubayi was born in Delta State to Professor Eric and Diana Arubayi. His father was a former vice chancellor of Delta State University.
Eric spent his childhood in the town of Abraka, where he grew up with his three siblings – Erica, Derrick, and Daniel.
In 2007, he became the third runner-up on singing reality TV show – West African Idol reality TV show. Timi Dakolo was the winner, and Omawumi also competed.
Eric did a little of interior decoration after the show. In 2011, he released his debut album “Redefined”.
The singer walked down the aisle with his beautiful Chinonso Iiomah year 2013 in Abraka, Delta State. Chinonso is a makeup artiste, YouTube beauty vlogger & content creator with Spice TV.
The singer who celebrated his 3rd wedding anniversary on Dec. 28th, 2016, left behind the parents, Prof & Prof (Mrs) Eric Arubayi, a wife, Chinonso and a son.
Celebrities Mourn Eric Arubayi
The Head Pastor of House On The Rock, Pastor Paul Adefarasin spoke about the late talented singer during his sermon on Sunday 12 February.
“I hate to lose anybody. There’s no happy man like Eric….Eric is with God now.
“Eric cannot be resurrected, he is not coming back. He’s dead…with the Lord but he’s happy. We mourn because we miss him but Eric is in a good place now.”
@M.I Abaga tweeted: “Join me to celebrate my friend Eric Arubayi’s life. we cry.. but not as those without faith for we know we will meet again.. Rest In Peace.”
@Obiora Obiwon 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 Arubayi! @ericarubayi. 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!.”
@Omawumi: “I am so broken right now… it’s not like you will come here and read this so what is even the purpose of this? I feel so selfish for not even calling to say Happy New Year… The last time I saw you, you said ‘Mobutu, you never come know my house’. Eric with tears in my eyes I’m saying I’m sorry. I will be a better friend, I will make an effort to just reach out and say hello not to you anymore cos you are resting with God, but to all the people I call my friends. Rest in peace, my dear brother”.
@Praiz: “This was the first day we met… the idols audition … I didn’t make it but u did … even after making it big u took me along…
You gave me hope that I cud succeed… treated me like a brother .. seeing u on tv sing and smile gave my heart a lift and hope …
I remember when u wud call me to tell me u were coming to Abuja and invite me… U made me feel like I was a star…introduced me to everyone…
And when I was leaving back to Kaduna, u will give me a lot of money and clothes… I never thought I wud have…
“I remember when u forced @omawonder to make me sing cos I didn’t make it to the idols show…
You taught me how to sing in falsetto… I never thought it was possible cos of my voice texture… u pushed me and taught me how. ….”
@Tim Godfrey: “Your smile was like a bright light!!!! Rest #Eric. God knows best!!!”
@Ruggdybaba: “Wow! Eric! Wow! May your soul rest brother….”
@Chioma Akpotha: “I’m too shocked to shed a tear, I’m that shocked … How can you make the world fall hopelessly in love with you and then … Just like a flash you leave without a word. Without a clue… Eric why? Can you just tell me…”
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@Andrea Chika Chukwu: “I am still wondering how?! This shouldn’t be Chineke ooooh RIP #ericarubayi #gonetoosoon – I am at a loss of words – go with God and may he console your family at this time in ways no human can”.
May his soul rest in peace.
