The family of late gospel singer Bunmi Akinnaanu, widely known as Omije Ojumi, has publicly denied social media claims that it was begging for financial assistance to fund her burial, clarifying that burial decisions were driven by family discussions and not external fundraising.
Speaking during the service of songs and artistes’ night held in Lagos, the singer’s brother‑in‑law, Mr. Femi Eretan, said the family decided to take full responsibility for funeral arrangements after discussions with members of the gospel music community who had initially proposed to organise the rites broke down. Eretan dismissed online narratives depicting internal discord, stressing that the family remains “united and composed” despite circulating rumours.
According to Eretan, the family contacted relatives from both the late singer’s paternal and maternal sides and consulted elders in their community immediately after her passing in January. The head of the family, Mr. Wale Akinnaanu, initially agreed to the proposal that colleagues conduct the burial within a week due to his fragility and emotional strain at the time. However, subsequent consultations led the family to conclude that Omije Ojumi who is survived by her husband and children and whose parents are deceased, deserved a more carefully planned and dignified burial handled by her immediate family.
Eretan said attempts to communicate the family’s decision to the artistes’ spokesperson were unsuccessful and that a breakdown in communication left the family with no alternative but to proceed independently. He also condemned a video by a self‑proclaimed prophet alleging that the family was publicly soliciting funds, warning that legal action may follow unless proof is presented. He declared that Anyone who claims the family begged for burial funds must provide evidence.
Despite the controversy, Eretan expressed gratitude to the gospel artistes who honoured Omije Ojumi by attending the service and paying tribute in their individual capacities. The family has urged the public to disregard misleading online narratives and allow the late singer to be laid to rest with dignity and peace.
