Life And Times Of Gospel Minister
OpenLife Nigeria reports that the family of late gospel minister, Bunmi Akinnaanu Adeoye, popularly known as Omije Ojumi, has announced burial arrangements for the revered worship singer, setting the tone for her final farewell and renewing emotions across Nigeria’s gospel music community.
According to the burial programme, a Service of Songs will hold on Tuesday, January 20, at the LTV 8 Ground, Ikeja, Lagos. The evening will also feature a candlelight procession and a tribute and artistes’ night, during which fellow gospel musicians and worship leaders are expected to honour her life through songs, prayers, and reflections.
Her interment, scheduled for Wednesday, January 21, will be a private ceremony, limited to family members and close associates, in accordance with the family’s wishes.
DEATH AND PUBLIC CONFIRMATION
The burial announcement comes weeks after the death of Bunmi Akinnaanu, whose passing shocked the gospel music community. She died on January 12 at a hospital in Lagos State, where she had been receiving medical treatment. Her death was officially confirmed the following day, January 13, sparking widespread mourning across churches and social media platforms.
EARLY LIFE AND BACKGROUND
Bunmi Akinnaanu was a native of Lagos State, where she was born and raised. From an early age, she showed a strong inclination toward music and spirituality. She grew up actively involved in church activities, particularly the choir, where her gift for worship music became evident.
Those who knew her in her formative years recall a young girl who sang with deep emotion and spiritual sensitivity beyond her age. To her, music was never entertainment—it was a calling and a ministry.
EDUCATION AND CORPORATE CAREER
Despite her passion for worship, she did not immediately step into full-time gospel ministry. She pursued higher education and gained admission through Direct Entry into Lagos State University (LASU), where she studied Industrial Relations and Personnel Management.
After graduation, she worked in the banking sector for about ten years. During this period, she remained active in church, leading worship and ministering at small gatherings. Balancing a demanding corporate career with ministry was challenging, but it shaped her discipline and strengthened her sense of purpose.
TRANSITION INTO FULL-TIME MINISTRY
Eventually, Bunmi Akinnaanu made the difficult decision to leave banking to pursue gospel ministry full-time. The transition came with financial uncertainty and personal sacrifice, but it marked a defining moment in her life as she fully embraced what she believed was a divine calling.
BREAKTHROUGH SONG AND MUSICAL JOURNEY
Her rise to prominence came with the release of the worship song “Omije Ojumi” produced by Ecwa Church Mushin, Lagos State about two decades ago, which she took the lead role . A deeply emotional piece that resonated widely with Christians across Nigeria. The song’s raw expression of dependence on God quickly turned it into a prayer anthem used in churches, vigils, and personal devotion moments.
The song not only introduced her to a wider audience but also became inseparably linked with her identity, earning her the name Omije Ojumi, by which she became widely known.
She went on to release other worship songs and minister at churches, prayer programmes, and gospel events, building a reputation for sincere, spirit-filled worship rather than commercial appeal.
MARRIAGE AND FAMILY LIFE
Bunmi Akinnaanu was married and was a mother. She deliberately kept her family life away from public attention, choosing privacy over publicity. Those close to her describe her as humble, gentle, and deeply family-oriented, even as her ministry continued to grow.
HEALTH STRUGGLES BEFORE HER DEATH
In the months leading up to her death, she battled significant health challenges. She reportedly suffered from a serious leg-related illness that affected her mobility and overall well-being. At one point, a video circulated showing her seated with her leg extended while prayers were offered for her healing, drawing concern and intercessory prayers nationwide.
Despite medical care and spiritual support, her condition worsened, and she spent her final weeks receiving treatment in Lagos.
LEGACY AND IMPACT
As preparations continue for her burial, tributes have continued to pour in. Many have described Omije Ojumi as a worshipper whose songs were prayers, music that carried comfort, depth, and spiritual meaning.
Though she will soon be laid to rest, her voice, ministry, and legacy remain alive, echoing in churches, homes, and hearts wherever her songs are sung.
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