Chukwuemeka Cyril Ohanaemere, widely known as Prophet Odumeje, is a Nigerian clergyman, musician, and the General Overseer of The Mountain of Holy Ghost Intervention and Deliverance Ministry. Born on September 9, 1982, in Orsu Ihete Ukwa, located in the Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria, he has become a prominent and controversial figure in Nigeria’s religious landscape.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Education
Odumeje was born into a family of six children, being the third child of Mr. and Mrs. Pius Ohanaemere. He completed his primary education at Nweje Primary School and proceeded to Providence Secondary School for his secondary education. Due to financial constraints, he could not pursue higher education and instead ventured into the leather business in Onitsha, Anambra State, where he worked as an apprentice.
Ministry and Career
In 2000, at the age of 18, Odumeje reportedly received a divine call to serve God, inspired by his mother’s vision of him becoming a great prophet. He established The Mountain of Holy Ghost Intervention and Deliverance Ministry on September 10, 2010, in Onitsha, Anambra State. The church, known for its unconventional deliverance sessions and energetic worship style, has grown significantly, attracting a large congregation.
Odumeje’s ministry is characterized by dramatic deliverance sessions, including lifting and throwing congregants, earning him nicknames like “The Wrestling Pastor” and “Heavyweight Servant of the Most High.” His flamboyant style and self-proclaimed titles such as “The Indaboski Bahose” and “Liquid Metal” have contributed to his popularity and controversy.
Music Career
Beyond his pastoral duties, Odumeje has ventured into music, releasing songs that blend religious themes with contemporary beats. His musical endeavors have further amplified his presence in the Nigerian entertainment scene.
Controversies and Criticisms
Odumeje’s ministry has been marred by several controversies:
- Unconventional Deliverance Methods: His practice of lifting and throwing congregants during deliverance sessions has been criticized as dangerous and unorthodox.
- Feud with Ada Jesus: In 2021, Odumeje had a public dispute with a comedienne known as Ada Jesus, who accused him of staging miracles. The conflict drew significant media attention, especially after Ada Jesus fell ill and sought forgiveness from those she had accused.
- Church Demolition: In July 2022, part of Odumeje’s church building in Onitsha was demolished by the Anambra State government for obstructing drainage channels. During the demolition, Odumeje was reportedly manhandled by security agents, leading to public outcry and the government’s promise to investigate the incident.
Personal Life
Odumeje is married to Uju Ohanaemere (née Ogbatuo), and they are blessed with five children. His wife, Uju, hails from Obinikpa Village, Umuobom Town, in the Ideato South Local Government Area of Imo State.
Associations with Notable Igbo Personalities
Throughout his ministry, Odumeje has been associated with several prominent Igbo figures:
- Rita Edochie: Veteran Nollywood actress Rita Edochie has been a staunch supporter of Odumeje, often defending him against critics and attending his church events.
- Flavour N’abania: Popular Nigerian musician Flavour has collaborated with Odumeje, featuring him in music videos and public appearances, highlighting a blend of religious and entertainment spheres.
Philanthropy
Despite the controversies, Odumeje has engaged in philanthropic activities. In October 2019, he donated over ₦4 million to victims of the Ochanja market fire in Onitsha, providing relief to affected traders.
Conclusion
Prophet Odumeje remains a polarizing figure in Nigeria, celebrated by his followers for his dynamic approach to ministry and criticized by others for his unconventional methods. His influence extends beyond the pulpit into music and popular culture, making him a notable personality in contemporary Nigerian society.
The Mountain of Holy Ghost Intervention Deliverance Ministry, led by Prophet Chukwuemeka Odumeje, is located at 88b Bida Road, off Modebe Avenue, Fegge, Onitsha, Anambra State, Nigeria. For inquiries, you can contact the church via telephone at +234 814 269 6755 or email at info@holyghostintervention.org.
Sources
- “Prophet Chukwuemeka Odumeje – The Indaboski Bahose.” Clacified. Accessed November 22, 2024. https://www.clacified.com/profile/prophet-chukwuemeka-odumeje-the-indaboski-bahose.
- “Odumeje.” Wikipedia. Accessed November 22, 2024. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odumeje.
- “Biography of Prophet Chukwuemeka Ohanemere Aka Odumejeje.” Nigerian Informer. Accessed November 22, 2024. https://nigerianinformer.com/biography-of-prophet-chukwuemeka-ohanemere-aka-odumejeje.
- “The Prophet Odumeje: Wrestling Pastor and Miracle Worker.” Pulse NG. Accessed November 22, 2024. https://www.pulse.ng/biography-prophet-odumeje.
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