Tension trailed the Zion Prayer Movement Outreach crusade in Enugu after the event venue was reportedly locked hours before the programme. Founder of the ministry, Evangelist Ebuka Obi, has alleged deliberate attempts to stop the gathering despite prior approval to use the stadium.
The crusade, scheduled for February 21, 2026, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu, faced unexpected disruption when organisers were informed late on Thursday night that the venue had been withdrawn. The notification reportedly came less than 24 hours before the event, with claims that the directive was issued “from above.”
Evangelist Obi stated that the ministry had secured official approval to use the government-owned facility after making payments as required. He explained that preparations for the programme had been ongoing for over a week at the stadium without any objections from authorities.
According to him, ministry members had also conducted evangelism activities in Enugu for about three months ahead of the crusade. He maintained that no communication suggesting cancellation was issued until the eve of the event.
By Friday, the stadium gates were said to have been locked, leaving worshippers stranded. Attendees reportedly travelled from different parts of Nigeria and abroad, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
The cleric further alleged that individuals were seen distributing flyers claiming the crusade had been cancelled in an attempt to disperse participants. He described the situation as coordinated and intentional.
He also claimed that unidentified security operatives and other individuals allegedly attempted to reach his hotel room on the night preceding the event. Evangelist Obi said he checked out of the hotel after receiving information about the development.
Despite the disruption, the crusade eventually proceeded after attendees reportedly gained access to the stadium. Videos shared online showed a large turnout at the programme.
Online discussions following the incident reflected strong support from members of the Zion Prayer Movement Outreach, who questioned the reason behind the alleged withdrawal of the venue. Some supporters suggested that the ministry’s growing influence may have unsettled certain interests, though no official explanation has been issued.
The evangelist has called for clarity on who authorised the last-minute cancellation, urging relevant authorities to address the matter. As of the time of filing this report, no formal statement had been released by the Enugu State Government regarding the alleged directive.
The February 21 crusade proceeded amid heightened attention, with organisers describing the event as successful despite the earlier controversy.
