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| Reverend Uma Ukpai |
By Oluchi Omai
Uyo, 13 October 2025 — Reverend Uma Ukpai, the internationally renowned evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, is reported to have passed away, sparking an outpouring of grief across Nigeria’s Christian community. While no official confirmation has yet been issued by his family, multiple faith-based sources and social media posts have begun circulating the news of his demise.
The initial indication of the cleric’s passing came in a poignant message posted on X (formerly Twitter) by fellow evangelist Prophet Joel Ogebe. Though he did not name the deceased, his words carried unmistakable weight: “A giant has gone to be with the Lord. My father, my father, the chariot of Israel. Heaven rejoices. Uyo.”
The biblical allusion—echoing Elisha’s lament upon Elijah’s ascension—resonated deeply with followers, many of whom immediately associated the tribute with Rev. Ukpai, given his stature and base in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Shortly thereafter, the Christian news platform Church Gist amplified the reports with a Facebook post declaring: “A GENERAL TAKES A BOW! EVANGELIST UMA UKPAI HAS GONE TO BE WITH THE LORD. REST IN POWER, SIR.” The message, shared widely across digital platforms, further fuelled speculation and sorrow among his vast network of congregants and admirers.
Rev. Ukpai, who founded the non-denominational Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, was widely respected for his decades-long ministry that spanned continents. Known for his fervent preaching and large-scale crusades, he played a significant role in shaping contemporary Pentecostal evangelism in Nigeria and beyond.
As of press time, however, neither the evangelist’s family nor the leadership of his ministry has released an official statement confirming his death. Authorities and close associates remain tight-lipped, leaving many to await formal clarification amid a growing tide of tributes and prayers.
For now, the Christian community—particularly in Akwa Ibom State, where his ministry was headquartered—holds its breath, mourning a figure many regard as a spiritual father, even as they await definitive word on his passing.
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