We Never Begged For Money – Omije Ojumi’s Family Breaks Silence

Family of late gospel singer, Omije Ojumi has clarified the circumstances surrounding the cancellation of burial rites earlier proposed by some of her colleagues, dismissing claims circulating on social media.

The family has now appealed to the public to ignore misleading online narratives and allow the late singer to be laid to rest with dignity and peace.

Addressing guests during the service of songs and artistes’ night held on Wednesday, the singer’s brother-in-law, Mr. Femi Eretan, said the family resolved to independently manage the burial after disagreements arose with members of the gospel music community.

Eretan refuted reports suggesting internal conflict within the family, insisting they remain united and calm, adding that “many people are crying more than the bereaved.”

He explained that following the singer’s death, the family promptly contacted relatives from both her paternal and maternal lineages, as well as elders in the community.

According to him, the family head, Mr. Wale Akinaanu, initially supported the proposal by some artistes to conduct the burial within a week.

This, he said, was due to Akinaanu’s fragile health, the emotional strain of the moment, and the desire to avoid keeping the deceased’s remains in the morgue for an extended period, considering the painful circumstances of her death.

However, Eretan said subsequent family discussions led to a change in decision.

The family agreed that, given Omije Ojumi was survived by a husband and children, and with both parents deceased, she deserved a more dignified burial that would be thoughtfully planned by her family.

He disclosed that he attempted to contact the artistes’ spokesperson who had volunteered to organise the burial, requesting a phone conversation to explain the family’s stance, but the request was declined.

Eretan added that he also reached out to an elderly member of the group, who allegedly told him, “If it is about Omije Ojumi, I am not interested.”

He noted that communication eventually collapsed, leaving the family with no option but to assume full responsibility for the burial arrangements.

Eretan also condemned a video circulated by a self-acclaimed prophet, which allegedly claimed that the family was publicly soliciting funds and seeking the intervention of gospel artistes to conduct the burial.

He firmly denied the allegation and warned of legal action if no evidence is provided to substantiate such claims.

“I am from Ondo State and I understand the rudiments of the law. Anyone who claims the family begged for burial funds must provide proof,” he said.

Despite the controversy, Eretan expressed appreciation to artistes who honoured Omije Ojumi in their personal ways and showed support by attending the service of songs.

TheSource reports that only a few guest artistes were present at the Lagos service of songs for Omije Ojumi.