Evangelist Uma Ukpai reportedly dead, tributes pour in from Christian community

Reports circulating on social media suggest that renowned Nigerian evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, Rev. Uma Ukpai, has passed away.

Speculations about his death gained traction after Prophet Joel Ogebe posted a cryptic message on X (formerly Twitter), writing:

“A giant has gone to be with the Lord. My father, my father, the chariot of Israel. Heaven rejoices. Uyo.”

Though Ogebe did not mention any names, the post quickly fuelled online discussions, with many linking his remarks to Rev. Ukpai, a highly respected figure in Nigeria’s Christian community known for his evangelical crusades across Africa and beyond.

The speculation was further amplified when Church Gist, a popular Christian media platform, shared a Facebook post announcing:

“A GENERAL TAKES A BOW! EVANGELIST UMA UKPAI HAS GONE TO BE WITH THE LORD. REST IN POWER, SIR.”

As of the time of filing this report, no official confirmation has been released by Rev. Ukpai’s family or his ministry, the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, which is headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Rev. Uma Ukpai, 79, has been a towering figure in Nigerian evangelical circles for decades, widely regarded for his fiery sermons, healing crusades, and mentorship of young preachers. His alleged passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes and prayers from believers across social media, while others continue to await an official statement from his family.