Several gospel singers including Lekan Remilekun-Amos otherwise called Omo Dafidi and Lanre Teriba popularly known as Atorise have mourned colleague and worship leader, Bunmi Akinnaanu, popularly known as Omije Ojumi.

Ms Akinnaanu reportedly passed away on Monday in a Lagos hospital.

Atorise, in an emotion-laden voice, told The Peoples Gazette that Ms Bunmi’s death was a sad news.

He said, “She was a great colleague and I feel grateful to have worked with her when she was alive. Her kindness and professionalism made a real difference to me. I will miss her. May she rest in perfect peace in Jesus name.”

Also, Remilekun-Amos noted that the late singer would be forever remembered and missed.

The musician stated, “Omaye” as we fondly refered to ourselves meaning ‘my maternal relative’ was a shining light whose voice shattered walls of darkness and restored hopes to the faithful.”

He said that Ms Akinnaanu fought a good fight and finished the heavenly race, adding “You will forever be remembered and missed. May your soul find rest in the bossom of the Lord, Olubunmi Akinaanu Omije Ojumi, Rest in Peace.”

The singer’s death was confirmed by gospel singer Alayo Melody who announced the development in a social media post on behalf of the family.

“With great sadness we announce the passing of Evangelist Olubunmi Akinnaanu Adeoye Omije Ojumi passed away on 12th January, 2026 at Lagos hospital, Nigeria. May God grant her eternal rest,” the post read.

In the months before her death, Ms Akinnaanu’s health struggles became a subject of public concern after videos emerged showing her receiving prayers during a church service while battling a severe leg condition.

Gospel singer Sarah Apekeola at the time took to Instagram to seek prayers and support for Ms Akinnaanu, describing her as a “strong woman” whose “laughter once lit up every room” and whose “voice blessed so many lives.”

She urged fans, friends, and well‑wishers to keep the singer in their prayers, provide financial assistance where possible, and help share her story so the minister could recover.

Born in Lagos State but originally from Ikale, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, Ms Akinnaanu began singing in church at a young age, honing her musical gift as a choir member before launching professionally into music.

She hit limelight after her powerful song “Omije Ojumi, (my tears)” a Yoruba worship song widely played during prayer and worship sessions across churches in Nigeria.

Over the years, she released seven albums which centred on faith, perseverance and devotion. The albums included Omije Ojumi, Dabira, Alatileyinmi, Ma-Sukun-Mo, Tujuka, Testimony and Oti Mure Wa.

Her songs, rendered in Yoruba, reflected her commitment to using worship as a tool for encouragement and spiritual reflection.