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The family of late gospel singer Omije Ojumi has finally addressed the controversy surrounding the cancellation of burial rites earlier announced by some of her colleagues, offering clarity on the decision and responding to claims circulating on social media.
Speaking on behalf of the family during the singer’s service of songs and artistes’ night held on Wednesday, Omije Ojumi’s brother-in-law, Mr Femi Eretan, explained that the family resolved to take full responsibility for the burial arrangements after a breakdown in understanding with members of the gospel music community.
Eretan dismissed rumours suggesting internal conflict within the family, stressing that they remain united despite the controversy. According to him, public reactions have been exaggerated.
“Many people are crying more than the bereaved,” he said, noting that the family is peaceful and focused on honouring the late singer appropriately.
He explained that immediately after Omije Ojumi’s passing, the family reached out to key relatives from both her father’s and mother’s sides, as well as elders in their hometown, to begin consultations on burial plans.
Eretan revealed that the head of the family, Mr Wale Akinaanu, initially supported the proposal by some of the singer’s colleagues to organise her burial within a week. He said the decision at the time was influenced by several factors, including Akinaanu’s fragile health, the emotional weight of the loss, and the desire to avoid keeping her remains in the morgue for too long, especially given the painful circumstances surrounding her death.
However, following further discussions among family members, a different conclusion was reached. Eretan said the family agreed that Omije Ojumi deserved a more carefully planned and dignified burial, particularly as she left behind a husband and children, and both her parents are deceased.
He added that the family felt it was only proper for them to take charge of the burial arrangements and ensure everything was done in line with family values and traditions.
According to Eretan, he personally reached out to the spokesperson of the artistes who had earlier volunteered to handle the burial, requesting a phone conversation to explain the family’s position. However, he said the request was turned down.
He further claimed that he contacted an elderly member of the group, hoping for mediation, but the response he received was discouraging.
“If it is about Omije Ojumi, I am not interested,” Eretan quoted the individual as saying.
Following the breakdown in communication, the family decided to independently plan and execute the burial without further involvement from the artistes.
Eretan also expressed strong displeasure over a video posted online by a self-acclaimed prophet, who allegedly claimed that Omije Ojumi’s family was soliciting funds and appealing to the gospel music community to finance the burial.
He categorically denied the allegation and warned that the family would not hesitate to take legal action if the claims were not backed with evidence.
“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 stated.
Despite the controversy, Eretan acknowledged and appreciated the gospel artistes who supported the family by attending the service of songs and honouring Omije Ojumi in their own ways.
He also referenced a similar recent dispute involving the burial of another late gospel singer, Bunmi Akinnaanu, whose funeral arrangements were delayed due to disagreements between her family and members of the gospel music industry. Akinnaanu passed away on January 12 after a prolonged illness.
It was also observed that only a few guest artistes were present at Omije Ojumi’s service of songs in Lagos, a situation many linked to the ongoing controversy.
In conclusion, the family appealed to the public to ignore misleading narratives online and allow the late singer to be laid to rest with dignity, respect, and peace befitting her legacy.
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