Reports

Body of Bunmi Akinnanu arrives Lagos cemetery for burial

The body of Bunmi Akinnanu, the late Nigerian gospel singer popularly known for her hit song “Omije Oju Mi,” has arrived at Atan Cemetery in the Yaba area of Lagos for her final burial.

The arrival of the casket was marked by emotional scenes, with family members and notable colleagues overcome with grief.

Recall that Akinnanu is expected to be laid to rest in an open grave beside that of Allwell Ademola, the late Nollywood actress and filmmaker.

The burial followed the release of a revised schedule by the singer’s family after concerns were raised over the circumstances surrounding her sudden death.

Her family members said they believed the death was not ordinary and required proper clarification before burial arrangements could proceed.

As a result, the family cancelled all initial burial plans to prioritise prayers, spiritual cleansing, and consultations aimed at understanding the situation.

They stressed that there was no justification for rushing the burial and insisted that Akinnanu deserved a dignified and honourable farewell.

The decision reportedly triggered disagreements between the family and some friends and colleagues of the singer.

The disagreement stemmed from the formation of a burial committee and fixing of dates by associates without full consultation with the family.

The lack of coordination was said to have caused delays and heightened tension between both parties.

Earlier burial plans circulated by a fellow gospel artiste included a multi-day programme featuring a service of songs, candlelight procession, and tribute night scheduled for Tuesday, January 20, at the LTV 8 ground in Ikeja.

A private interment for family members and close allies had also been fixed for January 21.

Those arrangements were later formally cancelled.

Following renewed discussions, the family approved a new burial timetable for the late gospel singer.

“A service of songs was held at Ben Auto Event Center, Akowonjo Roundabout, beside FCMB Bank,” the burial arrangement reads.

“A candlelight night took place on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 4:00pm. An artiste night followed on the same day between 6:00pm and 8:00pm.

“The final interment to be held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 10:00am and restricted to family members and close allies.”