Sadiq Lawal
New revelations have emerged about the circumstances surrounding the passing of beloved Nigerian gospel artist Bunmi Akinnaanu, popularly known as Omije Ojumi, who succumbed to illness in a Lagos medical facility.
As previously reported by Amonpoint News, her demise was made public on January 12, 2026, through an announcement by fellow musician Alayo Melody.
A longtime associate, Lanre Alewilese, has now disclosed intimate details about the singer’s harrowing final days.
In an emotional video testimony, Alewilese recounted how, in her last weeks, the acclaimed vocalist lost the ability to communicate verbally or visually, illustrating the severity of her medical condition.
The witness described the ordeal as particularly agonizing to observe.
Alewilese revealed he deliberately withheld information about her declining health from media outlets during her lifetime.
He maintained this silence, he explained, because there were no encouraging developments to report and he wanted to spare both the singer’s admirers and the general public from distress without being able to offer reassurance.
This decision, according to him, was motivated by respect for Omije Ojumi’s privacy and concern for her supporters’ emotional wellbeing.
In his poignant Yoruba narration, he stated: “…During those final painful weeks, Omije Ojumi existed without sight or speech. I chose confidentiality because there was no improvement to share. Why spread alarm when we had no solutions? Witnessing her fight was devastating beyond words…”
The 46-year-old musical minister had devoted her last months to intensive spiritual intercession for divine healing.
A viral video documenting one such prayer session, where she fervently petitioned heaven for restoration, had previously touched countless Nigerians who admired her musical ministry.
Bunmi Akinnaanu’s musical legacy includes numerous inspirational gospel recordings, with her signature piece “Omije Ojumi” remaining an enduring favorite among worshippers nationwide.
