The Nigerian gospel music community is in mourning following the passing of celebrated gospel singer Bunmi Akinnaanu, popularly known by her stage name Omije Ojumi (which translates from Yoruba as “Tears of My Eyes”). The news of her death was confirmed on January 12, 2026, with family representatives and colleagues sharing the heartbreaking update on social media.
Bunmi Akinnaanu’s departure has triggered an outpouring of tributes, heartfelt messages, and reflections on the profound influence she had on gospel music lovers in Nigeria and beyond. In this feature, we celebrate the life, ministry, and legacy of a gospel music icon whose songs were sources of comfort, faith, and resilience for millions.
A Life Anchored in Faith and Music
Born with a passion for music, Bunmi Akinnaanu began singing at a very early age. Her gift was evident long before she stepped onto public stages — leading her to eventually make a bold transition from her early professional life as a banker to full-time gospel ministry through music. This decision marked the beginning of a remarkable journey in worship and praise that would touch countless hearts.
Her educational background included studies that positioned her well for the corporate world. However, it was her calling in Christ and commitment to gospel music that eventually defined her career and public identity. She would later become one of the most recognizable and spiritually resonant voices in Nigerian gospel circles.
Breakthrough and Musical Legacy
Bunmi’s rise to national prominence came with the release of her soul-stirring track “Omije Ojumi”, a song that quickly became a spiritual anthem in churches, prayer gatherings, and Christian homes across Nigeria. The song’s themes of pain, hope, surrender, and trust in God resonated deeply with Christians navigating life’s storms.
Over the years, she released a series of songs and albums that expanded her reach and cemented her reputation as a worship minister whose music was less about performance and more about heartfelt communion with God. Some of her celebrated works include:
“Omije Ojumi” — her signature hit that declared vulnerability before God.
“O Ti Sure” — another powerful worship song affirming God’s faithfulness.
Other worship pieces that intertwined Yoruba devotional expression with contemporary gospel rhythms.
Her style blended traditional gospel with cultural expressions, making her music both relatable and profoundly spiritual.
Health Struggles and Public Prayers
In 2025, Bunmi Akinnaanu’s health became a matter of public concern when videos surfaced online showing her seeking prayers due to a serious leg ailment that had reportedly caused severe complications. In one notable instance, she appeared at a church service at G.F. David Ministries in Ibadan, Oyo State, where clerics and worshippers prayed fervently for healing as she sat with her leg visibly affected.
At various points, colleagues in the music and Christian communities publicly appealed for prayers and financial support to assist with her medical care. These heartfelt calls illustrated the deep relationships she fostered within the gospel music fraternity and the love that fans and contemporaries alike had for her.
Despite these efforts and the outpouring of support, her health continued to deteriorate, and she was eventually hospitalized in Lagos, where she sadly passed away on January 12, 2026.
Official Announcement and Family Statement
The official announcement of Bunmi’s death came via a statement shared on Instagram by her colleague Ayo Melody on behalf of her family. The message read, in part:
> “With great sadness 💔😭 we announce the passing of Evangelist Olubunmi Akinnanu Adeoye (OMIJE OJUMI), who passed away on 12th January 2026 at a Lagos hospital in Nigeria. May God grant her eternal rest.”
The announcement, accompanied by photos and video clips shared by family and friends, immediately sparked waves of grief, reflection, and celebration of her legacy across social media platforms.
Tributes from Fans and Fellow Artists
Tributes have flowed in from all corners of the gospel and broader entertainment community. Esteemed gospel artists, worship leaders, and fans have taken to social media to share memories of how Bunmi’s music influenced their spiritual journeys. Many described her not just as a musician, but as a spiritual mentor whose songs served as personal prayers and emotional support in times of difficulty.
From heartfelt worship leaders to everyday listeners, the consensus is clear: Bunmi’s music was more than just sound — it was ministry. Her songs were often shared in moments of personal reflection, church services, and during emotional struggles when the heart needed assurance of God’s presence.
A Legacy That Transcends Time
The legacy of Bunmi Akinnaanu (Omije Ojumi) is not confined to the dates of her lifespan, but rather in the lasting spiritual impact of her music and ministry. Her songs became tools of worship, comfort, and healing. They have been sung in cathedrals, small fellowship gatherings, and quiet personal prayer moments alike.
Her journey from a corporate career to an anointed music ministry reflects a powerful testimony of obedience, sacrifice, and faith — a narrative that continues to inspire upcoming gospel musicians and worship leaders.
As the gospel community mourns her passing, many are also celebrating a life fully lived in service of her calling — a life that brought hope, stirred faith, and reminded many of God’s constancy even in life’s most challenging seasons.
In Memory: Songs, Ministry, and Spirit
Bunmi’s contributions to gospel music will continue to be celebrated and played in worship spaces across Nigeria and the world. Songs like “Omije Ojumi” and “O Ti Sure” will endure, keeping her voice alive in the hearts of her fans and believers everywhere.
Her story — of talent, faith, struggle, and triumph — remains a powerful reminder of the transformative power of worship music. Though she has passed on, her ministry lives on in every life touched by her message of hope, perseverance, and trust in God.
May her soul rest in eternal peace. 🙏
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