Emotions ran high in Lagos on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, as the first daughter of late Nigerian gospel singer Bunmi Akinaanu (Omije Ojumi) delivered a deeply moving tribute during her mother’s service of songs.
The solemn gathering brought together family members, friends, colleagues in the gospel music industry, and well-wishers who came to celebrate the life, faith, and sacrifices of the late singer, fondly known as Omije Ojumi. However, it was the heartfelt words of her eldest daughter, Jomiloju, that left many attendees struggling to hold back tears.
A Daughter’s Painful Truth
Standing before the audience, Jomiloju spoke candidly about the difficult realities her mother endured while raising her children. She revealed that Omije Ojumi single-handedly took responsibility for the family after their father abandoned them, describing years of struggle that were hidden behind her mother’s calm and prayerful exterior.
“Ever since my father left us, he didn’t care and never called—imagine he’s coming now,” Jomiloju said, her voice shaking. “My mother was always there for us, even when our father wasn’t.”
She explained that despite the emotional and financial burden, her mother never allowed bitterness to define her life. Instead, Omije Ojumi channelled her energy into raising disciplined, God-fearing, and responsible children.
A Mother Who Lived for Her Children
Jomiloju painted a picture of a woman whose life revolved entirely around her children’s future. According to her, Omije Ojumi worked tirelessly, ensuring they had access to quality education and a stable upbringing, even when resources were limited.
“She wanted us to do better than she did, especially in her marital journey,” Jomiloju said. “But it’s a shame that my mother left so early and didn’t wait to enjoy the fruit of her labour.”
The daughter described her late mother as resilient and virtuous, a woman who carried the family’s burdens quietly while teaching her children core values such as respect, hard work, responsibility, and unwavering faith in God.
She recalled how Omije Ojumi constantly reminded them to live purposefully and plan ahead, lessons that have now taken on deeper meaning following her passing.
A Promise That Moved Many to Tears
In one of the most emotional moments of the tribute, Jomiloju made a public vow to honour her mother’s sacrifices by stepping into a protective role for her younger brother, William.
“My mother’s sacrifices will not be forgotten,” she said. “William and I will strive to make her proud by living according to the values she instilled in us.”
She pledged to guide her brother into becoming the prayerful, responsible man their mother always prayed for, assuring attendees that Omije Ojumi’s legacy would live on through their actions and choices.
A Celebration of Life and Legacy
The service of songs was not only a moment of mourning but also a celebration of Omije Ojumi’s impact as a gospel artist and mother. Fellow gospel musicians, friends, and admirers shared prayers and songs, reflecting on her dedication to ministry and her ability to touch lives through music and faith.
Many attendees described the tribute as a powerful reminder that behind public figures are personal stories of sacrifice and strength that often go unseen.
Why This Matters in Nigerian Entertainment
Omije Ojumi’s story resonates deeply within Nigeria’s gospel music community, where many artists juggle ministry, family responsibilities, and personal struggles away from the spotlight. Her daughter’s testimony highlights the often-overlooked sacrifices made by female gospel artists, especially single mothers, who balance faith, career, and parenting under immense pressure.
The tribute also sparked conversations online about parental responsibility, single motherhood, and the emotional toll of abandonment—issues many Nigerian families can relate to.
As the final songs echoed through the venue, one message stood clear: Omije Ojumi may be gone, but her faith, sacrifices, and values live on through her children and the countless lives she touched.
