The family of late gospel singer, Omije Ojumi, has refuted claims circulating online that they are soliciting financial assistance for the burial of the deceased artiste.
Addressing guests at the service of songs and artistes’ night held on Wednesday, the singer’s brother-in-law, Femi Eretan, condemned a viral video in which a self-acclaimed prophet alleged that the family was publicly begging for money and appealing to gospel artistes to intervene in the burial arrangements.
Eretan dismissed the allegation as false and warned that legal action would be taken unless concrete evidence is presented to back up the claim.
He said, “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.”
Clarifying issues surrounding the earlier cancellation of burial rites proposed by some of the singer’s colleagues, Eretan explained that the family decided to handle the burial independently after disagreements emerged with members of the gospel music community.
He stressed that there is no rift within the family, insisting they remain united and composed, but observed that “many people are crying more than the bereaved.”
Eretan further explained that following Omije Ojumi’s death, the family immediately reached out to relatives from both her paternal and maternal families, as well as community elders.
According to him, the family head, Wale Akinaanu, initially agreed with suggestions by some artistes to hold the burial within a week, but this proved impracticable due to his poor health and the emotional pressure at the time.
He added that further deliberations within the family later resulted in a revised decision on the burial arrangements.
Despite the controversy, Eretan expressed gratitude to gospel artistes and well-wishers who paid tribute to Omije Ojumi in their own ways and showed support by attending the service of songs.
