The Nigerian gospel music community is in mourning following the confirmed passing of popular singer Evangelist Olubunmi Akinnaanu Adeoye, widely known as Omije Ojumi. Her family released an official statement confirming the tragic news, which has sent waves of grief through her fanbase and fellow artists.
Family Statement Confirms the Loss
The singer's family announced her death in a formal statement signed by Olawale Akinnaanu. It revealed that Omije Ojumi passed away on Tuesday, January 12, 2026, at a hospital in Lagos, Nigeria. The statement requested prayers for her eternal rest, marking a somber end to her battle with an undisclosed illness that reportedly affected her leg throughout 2025.
Controversial Hospital Clip Surfaces Online
Adding a layer of controversy to the grief, a video clip shared by her colleague, fellow gospel musician Alayomelody, showed Omije Ojumi's body at the Lagos hospital where she died. This footage, intended to confirm the sad news, has sparked a significant backlash online. Many netizens expressed their displeasure, arguing that sharing such imagery was unnecessary and disrespectful to the deceased and her grieving family.
Mixed Reactions from Fans and Colleagues
The online sphere has been flooded with emotional tributes and critical comments. While many fans offered prayers and condolences, others focused on the video's publication. One user, mumjesse_ventures, commented that the second slide showing her body was "very unnecessary," stating that her picture was sufficient. Another, princeadejohn_, prayed for the Holy Spirit to console the family.
The tragedy follows earlier calls for prayers and fundraising efforts for her medical bills, highlighted by colleague Lanre Alawilese. Reports indicate that despite awareness of these efforts and her own struggles, her health continued to decline. The news also comes shortly after Pastor Segun Arole inquired about her well-being in a viral video, underscoring the suddenness of the loss for many.
The death of Omije Ojumi represents a significant loss to Nigeria's vibrant gospel music scene. As the family prepares for her final rites, the conversation continues to oscillate between celebrating her life and legacy and critiquing the manner in which her final moments were shared with the public.
