“If You Can’t Celebrate Me When I’m Alive, Don’t Attend My Burial” — Odumeje Warns Ahead of 30th Ministry Anniversary

Popular Nigerian pastor Chukwuemeka Cyril Ohanaemere, widely known as Prophet Odumeje, has reportedly issued a strong warning to people who fail to celebrate or appreciate him while he is alive but may want to attend his burial in the future.

The controversial cleric, popularly called the Indaboski Bahose, reportedly made the statement ahead of his 30th ministry anniversary, drawing attention to his outspoken personality and the message he appeared to be sending to his followers, supporters and critics.

The statement, which has attracted interest because of its strong wording, centres on appreciation, loyalty and the importance of recognising people while they are still alive rather than waiting until after their death to celebrate their achievements.

Odumeje’s Message About Appreciation

According to the statement attributed to him, the pastor warned that anyone who could not celebrate him during his lifetime should not expect to attend his burial.

“If you can’t celebrate me when I’m alive, don’t attend my burial or I will come after you,” he was quoted as saying.

The remark has drawn attention because of its dramatic tone, which is consistent with the bold and unconventional public image Odumeje has cultivated over the years.

Although the statement contains a warning about a future burial, it appears to communicate a broader message about showing appreciation to people while they are alive.

For many people, the comment may serve as a reminder that genuine support and recognition should not be reserved for funerals, memorials or moments when someone is no longer around to receive them.

However, the exact circumstances surrounding the reported remark, including the full context in which it was made, would be necessary to establish its intended meaning.

Who Is Pastor Odumeje?

Prophet Odumeje is the founder and leader of the Mountain of Holy Ghost Intervention and Deliverance Ministry, based in Onitsha, Anambra State.

He is widely recognised in Nigeria for his energetic preaching style, unusual expressions during church services and dramatic approach to religious ministry.

Over the years, he has built a strong public profile that extends beyond the church, with clips of his sermons and public appearances frequently attracting attention on social media.

His nickname, Indaboski Bahose, has also become closely associated with his personality and public image.

While some people admire his confidence and distinctive approach to preaching, others have criticised aspects of his style. Nevertheless, he remains a recognisable figure in Nigeria’s religious and entertainment conversations.

Ministry Anniversary Draws Attention

The reported statement comes ahead of his 30th ministry anniversary, a milestone that would mark three decades of religious service if the anniversary details are confirmed.

Such anniversaries often provide religious leaders with an opportunity to reflect on their journeys, recognise supporters and celebrate the growth of their ministries.

For Odumeje, the occasion has also brought renewed attention to his personality and the statements associated with him.

Supporters may interpret his reported warning as a call for people to appreciate others while they are still alive, while critics may focus on the threatening language used in the statement.

At the time of writing, further details about the anniversary celebrations and the circumstances surrounding the statement would be needed to provide a complete account.

Reactions Expected as Statement Circulates

The reported comment is likely to generate different reactions among Nigerians, particularly on social media, where Odumeje’s statements and public appearances often become subjects of discussion.

Some people may agree with the underlying message that appreciation should come during a person’s lifetime. Others may question the wording of the warning or interpret it as another example of the pastor’s dramatic public style.

Regardless of the reactions, the central issue raised by the statement is one many people can relate to: the importance of showing love, respect and appreciation before it is too late.

However, the quotation should be understood within its full context before conclusions are drawn about the pastor’s intentions.

As attention turns to his reported 30th ministry anniversary, the statement has once again placed Odumeje in the spotlight, highlighting his ability to generate conversations beyond the walls of his church.