Helen Ukpabio, the self-proclaimed “Lady Apostle” and founder of Liberty Gospel Church, remains one of Nigeria’s most polarizing religious figures. Known for her firebrand evangelism and controversial beliefs surrounding witchcraft, Ukpabio has faced widespread criticism for her teachings, which many argue promote fear, abuse, and superstition under the guise of Christianity. While her ministry has garnered a loyal following, her actions have drawn the ire of human rights activists, legal authorities, and even international organizations.
A Ministry Built on Witchcraft Allegations
Ukpabio first rose to prominence in the 1990s with her unconventional approach to Christian deliverance, focusing heavily on identifying and “neutralizing” alleged witchcraft. Her book “Unveiling the Mysteries of Witchcraft” and the 1999 film “End of the Wicked” are central to her message. These works depict children as potential agents of satanic possession, leading to heightened fears in communities where traditional beliefs about witchcraft are already deeply ingrained.
Critics argue that her teachings have fuelled a culture of violence and abuse, particularly in states like Akwa Ibom and Cross River, where accusations of witchcraft have reportedly resulted in the abandonment, abuse, or even lynching of suspected witches.
Accusations of Human Rights Abuses
Human rights organizations such as Safe Child Africa and the Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) have consistently condemned Ukpabio’s practices, describing them as a form of spiritual abuse. In 2024, her church hosted a program titled “Freedom from Witchcraft Attacks,” which critics said perpetuated harmful stereotypes and led to the harassment of alleged witches. The event’s promotional materials, which declared that “witches are on the run,” were widely criticized for inciting vigilante violence.
Activists have called for Ukpabio’s arrest under Nigerian laws that criminalize witchcraft accusations and related abuses.
Financial Exploitation and Wealth Allegations
In addition to accusations of abuse, Ukpabio has faced criticism for allegedly exploiting her followers financially. In 2024, reports emerged of Ukpabio completing a multi-million-naira mansion in Akwa Ibom State. While Ukpabio has framed her wealth as a blessing from God, critics argue that it is funded by exploiting the fears of her followers. This has sparked debates about the ethical responsibilities of religious leaders in a country grappling with widespread poverty.
International and Domestic Backlash
Ukpabio’s practices have not only drawn domestic criticism but also international scrutiny. The United Nations has cited her activities as contributing to human rights violations. In 2021, the UN Human Rights Council passed a resolution urging countries to eliminate harmful practices related to witchcraft accusations, a resolution that implicitly targeted figures like Ukpabio.
Leo Igwe, Director of the Advocacy for Alleged Witches, described Ukpabio as “a purveyor of dangerous superstitions” whose actions have caused untold suffering. He noted that witchcraft accusations often lead to brutal punishments, including torture, poisoning, and even death, particularly in rural communities. Igwe and others have urged Nigerian authorities to enforce
existing laws and hold Ukpabio accountable.
In November 2024, Nigerian singer Bloody Civilian accused Helen Ukpabio of inciting dangerous practices, including allegedly encouraging the burning of children alive in relation to her controversial witchcraft teachings. The accusation was made on social media during Ukpabio’s 60th birthday celebrations, reigniting debates about the pastor’s practices. Ukpabio’s daughter responded by threatening legal action, demanding N200 billion in damages for defamation. This led to a legal standoff, with Ukpabio’s team strongly denying the allegations and calling them malicious.
Support and Defiance
Despite the controversies, Helen Ukpabio continues to enjoy significant support among her followers, who view her as a spiritual warrior battling the forces of darkness. Her followers often defend her teachings as culturally relevant and spiritually necessary, particularly in regions where belief in witchcraft remains deeply entrenched.
Ukpabio herself has shown no signs of retreating. She frequently defends her practices, claiming that they save souls and protect communities from evil. In response to criticism, she has dismissed her critics as enemies of Christianity and accused human rights organizations of undermining African traditions.
A Legacy of Debate
Helen Ukpabio’s influence in Nigeria represents a contentious intersection of religion, culture, and law. To her supporters, she is a divine prophetess combating evil forces. To her critics, she is allegedly a dangerous figure whose teachings have caused irreparable harm to individuals and communities. As the debate surrounding her practices intensifies, Ukpabio’s story underscores the challenges of balancing religious freedom with the protection of human rights in a complex sociocultural landscape.
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