By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
Condolence messages and heartfelt recollections have continued to pour in following the passing of the renowned evangelist and spiritual leader of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, Reverend (Dr) Uma Ukpai.
Ukpai’s demise was confirmed in a statement on Monday, October 13, by his family, who said he died on October 6 at the age of 80.
In their message, the evangelist’s family described his passing as a “glorious transition” from a life of devoted service to eternal rest.
The family said his transition was a testament to the biblical truth that “to live is Christ, and to die is gain”
“He was a faithful soldier of the cross who devoted his life to spreading the gospel with passion and integrity.
“His teachings, prophetic insights, and mentorship have left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire believers for years to come,” his family said.
Ukpai, widely recognised as a spiritual general and founding father of faith, dedicated over six decades of his life to evangelism, dynamic teaching of the Word, and prophetic demonstrations of God’s power.
His ministry had a profound impact on millions of lives in Nigeria and around the world, shaping destinies and nurturing spiritual growth across generations.
In the statement announcing his death, the family expressed gratitude for his life and work, highlighting that while they mourn his physical absence, they rejoice that he has “finished his race and is now resting in eternal praise.”
They assured the public that details of his obsequies would be shared in due course.
The news of his passing trended on the social media space with the hashtag ‘Rest in power,’ as many Nigerians sent their condolences, while recounting their encounter with him and his ministries.
In his condolence message on his X handle, Apostle Johnson Suleman, wrote, ‘Thou power of God, in the name of Jesus MOVE.’ By those words, the wind blew…
“He stood gallantly and taught us a mission. Good night GENERAL SIR…(Psalms 116:15). Rest in Power DR UMA UKPAI…”
@Morris_Monye tweeted, “Saddened to hear of the passing of one of God’s mighty Generals on earth, Rev. Uma Ukpai.
“He was a very charismatic preacher in the 80s and 90s whose message of deliverance liberated lives from the Kingdom of darkness. Heaven has called His own back. May his family on earth be comforted. Amen.”
@officialEdehBen wrote, “Though he has finished his earthly race, his impact will continue to echo through time. Heaven has truly gained a faithful servant, and the world will forever remember a man who lived for God and for others. Rest on, God’s General, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai. Your light will never fade.”
Recollecting his encounter with the late cleric, @Haroldlink tweeted, “My fondest memories of him as a child and young man listening to you was not only the music, but the part where you’d say: “there over …people God wants to visit … Thou power of God, in the name of Jesus MOVE…” By those words, the wind blew. Rest on …Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai.”
