By the time news broke of the passing of Evangelist Bunmi Akinnanu, fondly known across Nigeria’s gospel landscape as Omije Oju Mi, a hush fell over churches, prayer groups and social media timelines. It was not just the announcement of death; it was the end of a ministry that many encountered not on grand stages, but in quiet moments of pain, repentance and supplication.
This is the story of a woman whose music flowed from brokenness, whose ministry was shaped by faith, and whose life continues to raise important conversations about care, compassion and legacy within the gospel community.
Bunmi Akinnanu was a Yoruba gospel minister whose life and calling were deeply rooted in Christian faith and indigenous gospel expression. Though she maintained a largely private personal life, those close to her often described her as soft-spoken, prayerful and deeply introspective.
She was known to draw inspiration from everyday struggles, spiritual warfare and personal encounters with God, elements that later became the hallmark of her music and ministry.
Available public records and interviews suggest that Bunmi Akinnanu had a basic formal education, alongside strong church-based spiritual training. Like many gospel ministers in Nigeria, her most profound formation occurred within the church environment, through fellowship, mentorship, prayer vigils and ministry exposure.
Rather than academic titles, her authority came from lived faith, deep spirituality and an ability to translate personal pain into collective worship.
Bunmi’s entrance into gospel music was not driven by commercial ambition but by ministry calling. Her breakout recognition came through the soul-stirring song “Omije Oju Mi” (translated as “The Tears of My Eyes”), a deeply emotional prayer-song that resonated with listeners facing hardship, sickness, poverty and spiritual battles.
The song, raw and slow-paced, stood out in an industry increasingly defined by upbeat praise and performance. Listeners connected instantly because the song felt real, less like entertainment and more like a cry lifted straight to heaven. From that moment, Omije Oju Mi became both her signature and her identity.
Bunmi Akinnanu’s music was marked by: Deeply penitential lyrics, Slow, reflective worship style, Emphasis on prayer, brokenness and surrender and Strong use of Yoruba language and expressions
She ministered mostly at church programs, prayer meetings, crusades and small Christian gatherings, preferring intimate spiritual settings to celebrity-driven platforms.
To many, she represented the old-school gospel tradition, where tears, silence and waiting on God were as powerful as loud praise.
Beyond music, Bunmi was known within Christian circles as a woman of intercession and counsel. Though she did not run a large foundation or public NGO, her impact was felt through: Ministry support to struggling believers, Participation in prayer chains and revival meetings and Quiet encouragement of fellow gospel ministers
Her influence was more personal than institutional, touching lives one prayer, one song, one conversation at a time.
In the months preceding her death, reports of Bunmi Akinnanu’s serious illness began circulating. Fellow gospel artistes and Christian leaders made emotional public appeals for prayers and financial assistance to support her medical treatment.
Her illness sparked intense discussion within the gospel community, about healthcare access, welfare for ministers, and the often-unspoken struggles faced by gospel artistes behind the scenes.
While many rallied around her, the situation also exposed uncomfortable questions about how gospel ministers are supported in times of vulnerability.
Bunmi Akinnanu reportedly passed away on 12 January 2026 at a hospital in Lagos after battling prolonged illness. News of her death triggered an outpouring of tributes, prayers and reflections across social media, with many expressing sorrow, shock and gratitude for her life and ministry. Her death marked the close of a chapter, but not the end of her influence.
Bunmi Akinnanu leaves behind: Songs that continue to serve as prayers in musical form
A reminder that gospel music is first ministry, not performance. A legacy that challenges the church to care for its ministers beyond the pulpit. Her life underscores the reality that some of the most powerful ministers are not the loudest or the most celebrated, but the most sincere.
As the curtains fall on her earthly journey, Bunmi Akinnanu—Omije Oju Mi, is remembered not for glamour or controversy, but for truthful worship, tearful prayers and unwavering faith.
Her voice may be silent, but her cry remains.
Rest in perfect peace, Evangelist Bunmi Akinnanu.
Your tears became songs, and your songs became prayers.
