A viral video showing controversial Onitsha-based cleric Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere, popularly known as Prophet Odumeje, has ignited a fresh wave of discourse online. The clip, recorded during a church service, captures the prophet singing a popular protest song by the late Nigerian Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo Kuti.
Fela's Lyrics as a Tool for Political Critique
In the video that surfaced on Saturday, December 7, 2025, Odumeje is seen energetically performing Fela's classic track, "Palava." He adapted the lyrics to deliver a pointed critique of the Nigerian political establishment. The cleric's rendition directly called out the presidency, the national and state assemblies, governors, and various government agencies and parastatals.
Among the specific issues alluded to was the recent renovation of the Vice President's official residence under President Bola Tinubu's administration. Odumeje, through the song, echoed Fela's historic stance as a government critic, even alleging that the authorities had tried to silence the musician.
Mixed Reactions from Nigerians Flood Social Media
The video quickly garnered widespread attention, prompting a flood of mixed reactions from Nigerians across social media platforms. Many viewers interpreted the act as a bold, symbolic stand against perceived governance failures.
One user, Ijem, praised the act, reiterating the lyrics: "'Palava, go follow you. You and your family. Senator, palava go follow you. Governor, palava go join you o. President, you go face palava.' No matter what you say about Odumeje, I love that he has repeatedly chosen to stand for truth when it comes to Nigeria and the problems with Nigeria."
Another commenter, Alatika Baba, commended Odumeje's courage: "This man is better than most of these GOs who refused to say the truth to the government despite the suffering of the poor citizens. They see how government officials are stealing billions, and the pastors will keep quiet."
Support also came from Christain Ndu, who wrote: "The only pastor in Nigeria who keeps calling out the bad leaders we have. Man is risking his life." User Pusha described the cleric's method as smart: "Smartness is not by school; he’s a smart man. He’s indirectly calling out bad government, in the guise of what Fela said."
However, not all feedback was positive. A user named Prince expressed skepticism: "I'm suspecting they pay these people to attend Church services."
Odumeje's Checkered Past and Transformation
This incident is not the first time Prophet Odumeje has made headlines. In a previous revelation, the cleric disclosed that he had a troubled past before finding religion. He stated that he was involved in armed robbery and terrorist activities at the age of 14.
Odumeje credited his mother for leading him to Christianity and orchestrating his salvation, a transformation story he often shares with his congregation in Onitsha, Anambra State.
The use of Fela's music, a enduring symbol of resistance and social commentary in Nigeria, within a church setting underscores the blending of cultural critique and religious expression. It highlights the ongoing public frustration with political leadership and the unique platforms from which such dissent can emerge.
