Bunmi Akinnanu, also known as Evangelist Olubunmi Akinnaanu Adeoye or Omije Ojumi, was a prominent Nigerian gospel singer, songwriter, and evangelist celebrated for her hit song “Omije Ojumi.” She transitioned from a banking career to full-time ministry, leaving a lasting impact on Yoruba gospel music through her powerful voice and messages of hope. She passed away on January 12, 2026, at age 46 after battling a leg ailment.
Profile Summary
| Full name | Olubunmi Akinnaanu Adeoye (Omije Ojumi) |
| Date of birth | November 19 (late 1970s/early 1980s, turned 46 in 2025) |
| Place of birth | Lagos State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| State of Origin | Ondo State (Okitipupa LGA) |
| Partner | Olawale Adeyina (m. 2016) |
| Children | 2 (first in Oct 2017, second later; dual citizens) |
| Date of death | January 12, 2026 |
Early Life and Education
Bunmi lost her mother at age four and was raised by her disciplinarian father in a Christian home within the Evangelical Church of West Africa (ECWA), where she began singing at age 10.
She attended Lagos State Polytechnic for a National Diploma in Business Administration and later earned a B.Sc. in Industrial Relations and Personnel Management from Lagos State University (LASU). Her ECWA choir experience shaped her solemn hymn-based vocal style.
Career
Akinnaanu worked at Ecobank for 10 years post-industrial training before resigning around the mid-2000s to pursue music full-time after composing “Omije Ojumi” as an ECWA lead vocalist. The song’s success propelled her to national fame, with other hits including “Testimony,” “O Ti Sure,” and “Da Iji Duro.” She also engaged in ministry, acting, journalism, and won the YOMAFA Best Female Gospel Act in 2017.
Personal Life
She married Olawale Adeyina on November 16, 2016; he is based in London, and their children hold dual citizenship. The family maintained privacy, influenced by her father’s teachings, while she balanced international travel with ministry. Her faith emphasized lament-turned-hope theology, rooted in early losses.
Sickness and Death
In late 2025, she suffered a severe leg ailment with persistent bleeding, described in church as a spiritual attack; a video showed her seeking prayer at G.F. David Ministries in Ibadan. No exact cause was disclosed, but she died on January 12, 2026, at a Lagos hospital, confirmed by family statement signed by Olawale Akinnaanu.
Discography
Bunmi Akinnanu, known as Omije Ojumi, released several albums and singles that defined her career in Yoruba gospel music. Her discography spans heartfelt worship tracks blending traditional hymns with contemporary praise.
Albums
• Omije Oju Mi (maiden album, 2004)
• Dabira
• Alatileyinmi (or Alatilehin)
• Ma-Sunkun-Mo (or Masunkun Mo)
• Tujuka
• Testimony
• O Ti Mure Wa (latest album)
Notable Singles
• Omije Ojumi
• O Ti Sure (2018)
• Oti Murewa (2018)
• Oluwa Oluwa Wa (2018)
• Ope Ni Yo Yori Si (2020)
• Lori Oke Agbelebu (2020)
• Ko To (2021)
• Testimony
• Ogo Foruko Re
• Naija Prophecy
• Kò Tó
Legacy
Omije Ojumi’s timeless hit “Omije Ojumi” endures as a cornerstone of Yoruba gospel, offering solace in grief and inspiring countless artists in Nigeria’s music scene. Her blend of solemn hymns and contemporary worship influenced indigenous gospel traditions, while her ministry work touched lives across churches and communities. Tributes from fans and peers highlight her as a resilient icon whose music will continue uplifting generations.
