David Ochayi
The burial of beloved gospel artist Bunmi Akinnaanu has been postponed due to unresolved disputes between her family and fellow musicians regarding funeral plans.
Akinnaanu, who succumbed to a prolonged leg ailment on January 12, had received an outpouring of prayers and solidarity from fans and peers nationwide before her passing.
Initially, gospel singer Alayo Melody announced a detailed burial schedule, featuring a candlelight procession, tribute night, and service of songs at Lagos Television’s LTV 8 grounds in Ikeja on January 20, followed by a private interment the next day. However, these arrangements were abruptly canceled amid family tensions.
Gospel artist Lanre Alewilese later confirmed that internal family conflicts disrupted the proceedings. Meanwhile, Segun Arole of the Cherubim and Seraphim Global Network revealed on TikTok that the musicians coordinating the burial withdrew after facing communication breakdowns and scheduling disputes with the family.
Arole disclosed that the artists had already invested funds in burial preparations, including custom attire and a casket, before the disagreement escalated. He lamented the family’s lack of responsiveness, which ultimately derailed the collaboration.
Despite earlier agreements on dates and logistics, the burial team disbanded in frustration. Arole called on prominent gospel and Fuji artists—Soji Omotayo, Alayo Melody, Ambrose Shomide, Saheed Osupa, and Wasiu Pasuma—to mediate and assist the grieving family.
Emphasizing reconciliation, Arole urged all parties to prioritize peace over grievances. The family has since rescheduled Akinnaanu’s burial for January 28, 2026, hoping for a harmonious farewell.
