Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Etigwe Uwa, has paid an emotional tribute to the late renowned evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, describing him as a divine phenomenon, a fearless soldier of Christ, and a man whose life radiated faith, humility, and service to God and humanity.
In his message to the Uma Ukpai family, Uwa reflected on the life and legacy of the globally celebrated evangelist, recalling his early encounters with the late cleric and the indelible mark he left on the people of Asaga Ohafia and beyond.
“Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai was a comet that appears sparingly — full of giving, utterly selfless, a man of God indeed, daring, fearless, and an exerciser of incredible and unfathomable faith and courage. He was a trailblazer, an inspiring worshipper, and truly a phenomenon,” Uwa wrote.
The legal luminary recounted his first personal experience of Dr. Ukpai’s ministry in the 1970s, during a mini crusade organised in the Asaga Ohafia Town Hall, where a film titled ‘The Burning Hell’ was screened to the amazement and repentance of many.
“I will never forget that experience. The movie and the message he preached afterwards touched so many lives, leading many to repentance. The impact of that encounter has never left me,” Uwa recalled.
He noted that from those humble beginnings, Rev. Dr. Ukpai’s ministry grew exponentially. First across Nigeria and later on the international stage—reaching countless souls with messages of salvation, healing, and deliverance.
“Growing up in Lagos, I would often see posters of him as guest preacher in churches almost every week. His messages were deeply impactful, and his worship always drew the manifest presence of God. Through his ministry, many souls were blessed, healed, and delivered,” he said.
Etigwe Uwa also praised Dr. Ukpai’s consistent devotion to the Ohafia community, recalling how he dedicated his time, prayers, and resources to its progress and spiritual upliftment.
“He was deeply engaged with our community. When we once felt a strange affliction, we invited him, and he came, prayed, and ministered with great passion. From that day, he made our solemn assembly an annual event, and our community has been tremendously blessed ever since,” he noted.
He described the late cleric as a man of humour, courage, and divine strength, fondly recalling his nickname, “Uma Ranger,” which symbolised his fearless spirit and unshakable faith in God.
“He never hesitated to run over a troop. The news of his death affected me more than any other in recent times, but I choose to celebrate an incredibly great man — humane, God-fearing, and tireless in his pursuit of his Maker’s work and the service of humanity,” Uwa wrote.
In his concluding remarks, Uwa extended heartfelt condolences to Aunty Philo, Chidi, Nnenna, and the entire Ukpai family, urging them to take solace in the glorious legacy left behind by the revered evangelist.
“There is a glorious legacy you and we all are proud of. It is God’s prerogative to decide when our time here is up. Let us be encouraged by his wonderfully impactful life and learn to number our days, that we may apply our hearts to wisdom.
“Adieu, Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai. I only wish there was an opportunity for a proper farewell, but in all things, we thank God.”
