…….Family Confirms Lagos Hospital Passing…..
By Adesakin Adefemi
The Nigerian gospel music community is in deep mourning following the death of Evangelist Olubunmi Akinnaanu Adeoye, affectionately known as “Omije Ojumi” a name that captured her tear‑filled, emotionally charged worship style.
Her family announced her passing in a statement released on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, confirming she succumbed to a long‑term illness at a Lagos hospital on Monday, January 12, 2026. She was 58 years old.
Omije Ojumi rose to prominence with her signature Yoruba gospel anthem “Omije Ojumi,” which became a staple in churches and homes across the country.
She began singing at age 10, later left a banking career to pursue full‑time ministry, and was celebrated for her raw, tear‑filled worship sessions that moved congregations to deep prayer and repentance. Her voice was described as “a sound that broke chains and opened hearts.”
Public concern over her health surfaced in October 2025 after a widely circulated video showed her visibly frail during a spiritual programme at G.F. David Ministries in Ibadan. In the footage, she sat with a swollen leg extended on a chair, an IV line in her hand, and could only respond with tears when addressed by a cleric.
The clip sparked nationwide prayer vigils, social‑media campaigns, and fundraising efforts by fellow gospel artists, but her condition continued to deteriorate despite medical care.
Her passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, pastors, and colleagues, who describe her as a sincere worship leader whose voice brought comfort to countless believers.
Senior gospel singers such as Funmi Soyinka, Pastor Yinka Odon, and Praise Onyinye have posted heartfelt messages on Instagram and Facebook, calling her “a vessel of tears and truth.”
The family has not yet disclosed burial arrangements; further details are expected in due course.
Sources close to the family indicate that a private service will be held first, followed by a public memorial at a major Lagos church possibly the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) City of David or Faith Tabernacle but no official date has been set.
Already, several prominent gospel groups and churches have begun organizing special services in her honor. The Gospel Music Association of Nigeria (GMAN) is coordinating a national tribute concert slated for late January, while the Lagos State Council of Churches has announced a 24‑hour prayer vigil at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, Lagos, on Jan 20, 2026. Faith‑based radio stations across the country are also airing her music non‑stop as a memorial.
Beyond the music and the tears, Omije Ojumi was remembered as a humble servant who never sought fame only to bring people closer to God. “She didn’t sing to be heard; she sang to be felt,” said Pastor Tunde Bakare in a statement. “May her tears water the seeds of revival in every heart she touched.”
It is well may her soul rest in peace.
Amen