Popular Nigerian cleric Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere, popularly known as Prophet Odumeje, has revealed details of his troubled childhood, claiming that people used to pay him to fight on their behalf before he embraced evangelism.
Odumeje made the revelation during a conversation with media personality Nedu, where he described himself as a dangerous man while recounting his stubbornness and reputation for fighting as a young boy.
“I don’t do comedy,” the cleric said, insisting that his personality and past experiences were not a joke. He also admitted that he was extremely stubborn while growing up.
According to him, people who had problems with bullies would pay him to confront their opponents. He explained that after collecting payment, he would arrange a date for the fight and ensure that people gathered to witness the confrontation.
Odumeje recalled that the fights usually took place around 5 p.m. or 6 p.m., after the Women’s Market in Onitsha had closed for the day.
However, he said his life took a different direction when he decided to embrace Christianity and begin preaching the gospel on the streets of Onitsha.
The cleric disclosed that he went from street to street with a megaphone to preach, despite being widely known for his previous lifestyle.
“I preach gospel street by street of Onitsha with my megaphone, and many laugh at me,” he said.
Odumeje further revealed that his decision to become a preacher did not sit well with some of his former friends, who allegedly felt threatened by the transformation because people mocked them over his new lifestyle.
He claimed that the friends repeatedly attacked him and, on one occasion, seized his megaphone and Bible before beating him.
Reflecting on those experiences, the cleric said his faith in God and the Scriptures encouraged him to remain committed to his calling despite the challenges he faced.
He cited biblical passages, including John 16:33, Numbers 23 and Matthew 21, while emphasising his belief that God does not fail or deceive those who trust in Him.
The revelation offers a glimpse into the cleric’s account of his journey from a troubled childhood to religious ministry, highlighting the challenges he said he faced while attempting to change his way of life.
