Late Gospel Singer Omije
OpenLife Nigeria reports that the first child of the late gospel music icon, Omije Ojumi, has paid a deeply touching tribute to her mother, portraying her as a woman of uncommon strength who held her family together despite the storms that trailed her marital life.
Speaking at the service of songs organised in memory of the singer on Wednesday, her daughter, Jomiloju, recalled how her mother never abandoned her responsibilities, choosing instead to remain present and committed to her children even during times when their father was largely absent.
“She was always there for us, even when our father wasn’t,” she said emotionally.
According to her, Omije Ojumi was driven by a singular goal to raise children who would grow up responsible, disciplined, and emotionally grounded.
She explained that her mother was intentional about ensuring her children would not repeat what she believed were her own mistakes in marriage.
“Her focus was to make sure we turned out responsible and did better than she did in her marital journey,” she added.
Jomiloju further stated that education was a priority for the late singer, noting that she sacrificed greatly to enroll her children in the best schools she could afford, all in a bid to secure a brighter future for them.
At the peak of the emotional tribute, the eldest daughter made a solemn vow to her late mother, publicly committing to take full responsibility for her younger brother and guide him in the path of faith and responsibility.
“I promised my mum that I will take care of my younger brother,” she said. “He will be the prayer warrior and responsible son she wanted him to be, not like …”
BIOGRAPHY OF BUNMI AKINNAANU (OMIJE OJUMI)
EARLY LIFE AND BACKGROUND
Bunmi Akinnaanu Adeoye, popularly known as Omije Ojumi, was born on November 19, 1979, into a deeply Christian family.
From childhood, she was surrounded by faith, music, and strong moral teachings that shaped her spiritual journey. She grew up in Lagos as one of six children, where church activities played a central role in her upbringing.
Her passion for music emerged early.
As a young girl, she joined the church choir and quickly became known for her powerful voice and emotional delivery during worship sessions traits that would later define her music ministry.
EDUCATION AND EARLY CAREER
Bunmi Akinnaanu attended Lagos State Polytechnic before proceeding to Lagos State University, where she studied Industrial Relations and Personnel Management. After graduation, she built a stable career in the banking sector, working with reputable financial institutions for over a decade.
Despite professional success, music and ministry continued to tug at her heart, eventually leading her to make the bold decision to leave banking and pursue gospel music full-time.
GOSPEL MUSIC CAREER
Her breakthrough came with the release of the worship song “Omije Ojumi,” a deeply emotional Yoruba song that translates to “tears from my eyes.” The song resonated powerfully with listeners, quickly becoming a worship anthem across churches and prayer gatherings. Its impact was so profound that “Omije Ojumi” became her identity and stage name.
Over the years, she released several songs and albums that focused on themes of surrender, healing, perseverance, and gratitude.
Her music ministry touched lives far beyond Nigeria, earning her recognition as one of the most emotionally expressive gospel worship leaders of her generation.
MARRIAGE AND PERSONAL LIFE
Omije Ojumi was married and had children, including her daughter Jomiloju and a younger son. Her marital life, though largely private, was marked by challenges that she bore quietly.
Those close to her often described her as a devoted mother who placed her children’s wellbeing above everything else.
Her daughter’s tribute revealed that even amid marital struggles, she remained fully committed to raising her children with discipline, faith, and purpose.
HEALTH STRUGGLE AND DEATH
In her final months, Bunmi Akinnaanu battled a serious health condition that affected her leg and resulted in persistent bleeding. Videos circulated online showing her seeking prayers and spiritual support as she held firmly to her faith for healing.
Sadly, she passed away on January 12, 2026, at the age of 46, leaving behind her children, family, and a grieving gospel music community.
BURIAL ARRANGEMENT CONTROVERSY
Following her death, plans for her burial became clouded by controversy.
Initial funeral arrangements involving some gospel colleagues were abruptly suspended after disagreements arose between the family and external parties over control of the burial process.
Rumours later surfaced online suggesting the family was soliciting funds for her burial claims they strongly denied, insisting they were capable of handling the arrangements themselves.
The family condemned the misinformation and described it as painful and disrespectful to her memory.
FINAL BURIAL AND DRAMA AT THE CEREMONY
Despite the earlier setbacks, Bunmi Akinnaanu was eventually laid to rest successfully yesterday. The burial ceremony was emotional and solemn, attended by family members, gospel musicians, and admirers.
However, moments of tension reportedly surfaced during the burial, including a dramatic phone call involving her ex-husband concerning the welfare of the children. Though unsettling, the situation was managed quietly, allowing the ceremony to proceed without disruption.
Bunmi Akinnaanu, fondly remembered as Omije Ojumi, lived a life of faith, sacrifice, and resilience. She sang through pain, worshipped through tears, and raised her children with unwavering love despite personal challenges.
Her voice may have gone silent, but her songs remain prayers that will echo in the hearts of worshippers for years to come. In the end, she leaves behind not just music, but a legacy of strength, motherhood, and faith forged in adversity.
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