A devastating road accident has claimed the lives of four well-known Nigerian gospel ministers and at least 20 others along the Ikorodu–Sagamu Road in Ogun State. The tragic incident, which occurred over the weekend, has plunged the Nigerian Christian community into deep mourning.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed the crash in a statement released on Monday by the Ogun State Sector Commander and Public Information Officer, Florence Okupe. According to the statement, the accident involved multiple vehicles and was caused by overspeeding and poor visibility, leading to a high-impact collision.
The deceased gospel ministers have been identified as Evangelist Ayodeji David, popularly known as Kekere Jesu, Evangelist Iyanu Joseph, Monjolajesu Oluwapamilerin, and Opeyemi Adesina. All four were reportedly on a ministry assignment when the fatal crash occurred.
Eyewitness accounts and initial investigations by the FRSC revealed that the crash involved a commercial bus transporting the ministers and another vehicle, which collided head-on, killing several passengers instantly. The total death toll from the crash has reportedly risen to 24.
Evangelist Kekere Jesu was particularly beloved for his energetic street preaching, compelling social media presence, and unwavering passion for evangelism. He had a large online following and was known for his outreach to youths across Nigeria.
Tributes have been pouring in from across the country. The founder of Christ Apostolic Church, Grace of Mercy Prayer Mountain International Ministry, Prophet Sam Olu Alo, took to Facebook to express his grief, describing the late ministers as dedicated soldiers of Christ who gave their all in service to the gospel.
“Their deaths are a painful reminder of the fragility of life. They were on a mission for the Lord, and their work will not be forgotten,” Prophet Alo wrote.
The loss has sent shockwaves through church communities, gospel music circles, and Christian organizations nationwide. Many have described the incident as a tragic blow to the ministry in Nigeria, given the impactful work and growing influence of the deceased ministers.
Local authorities and the FRSC have reiterated the need for safer driving practices and improved road visibility measures, especially on major highways like Ikorodu–Sagamu Road.
