Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe, founder and spiritual leader of Genesis Global Ministry in Lagos, has denied claims that he prophesied the death of socialite and music promoter Samson Eletu, popularly known as Sam Larry. In a public notice dated July 7, 2026, titled 'Clarification on False Claims of a Prophecy Concerning Sam Larry,' the cleric, through his ministry, described the circulating reports as misleading and urged the public to disregard them.
Prophet's Official Denial
'We state unequivocally that Prophet Israel Genesis did not, at any time, issue such a prophecy or mention Sam Larry by name in connection with any revelation of death,' the statement read. 'No such statement exists in any of his recorded messages, sermons, or public engagements.'
The clarification comes amid viral reports alleging that during a live session, the prophet had foreseen the death of Sam Larry, a close associate of singer Naira Marley. The ministry emphasised that while Prophet Ogundipe occasionally shares visions concerning death or impending danger, it is his established practice to withhold the identities of individuals involved and instead call for prayer and divine intervention.
Ministry's Stance on Prophetic Practice
According to the ministry, 'This approach is deliberate and rooted in responsibility. Prophetic revelation, as practiced in his ministry, is not intended to sow fear, cause panic, or defame any individual, but to point people toward prayer and divine intervention.' A video of Prophet Oladele addressing the alleged prophecy during a service was also shared online.
The alleged prophecy attributed to the cleric emerged after Sam Larry was involved in a car crash on the Lagos-Calabar coastal road, which reportedly claimed the life of his bouncer. As of press time, Sam Larry's team or family had not issued any statement regarding the incident.
Public Reactions
The denial sparked mixed reactions on social media. Ajulo Oba SunnyteeDspraypainter commented, 'Nigeria pastor and seeing death. Them no dey see better things.' Akande Bolaji said, 'No one can take the dead made for someone else. My time is my time while your time is yours. Everybody should know that our God is so perfect and superior to human imagination. God doesn't make mistake. Everybody has a destination.' Femi added, 'But sentiment apart, there's prophecy and it works for those who believe. Ignoring prophecy is disastrous; better you never heard it.'
Sam Larry's Last Post
Following the reports of Sam Larry's car crash, netizens flooded the socialite's Instagram page, reacting to his last post, which included pictures of himself, singer Naira Marley, and friends in suits. One comment read, 'Get well soon, Larry! May the good Lord perfect your healing, amen.'
