Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere, the Nigerian cleric popularly known as Odumeje, has offered words of encouragement to Afrobeats star Davido following his recent loss at the Grammy Awards.
Speaking during a recent church service, the controversial cleric dismissed the significance of the Grammy, asserting that Davido’s impact and success in music transcend awards and trophies.
In his characteristically bold style, Odumeje reframed the singer’s identity itself as the highest honour.
He called Davido a “generational and living award,” declaring that the singer’s achievements and influence make him an accolade in his own right.
“There is one of our brothers that I love so much. That is a very great musician, and that is Davido. You are already a generational award, awarded with many awards,” Odumeje said.
“There is no award you will receive now that means anything. You have already been awarded every award you need. Your life is an award. Your steps are an award.
“Don’t allow ordinary people to quench the fire of your joy. Go out and get more inspiration to shock the world with new music. Don’t go where you are not accepted.
“What is the Grammy? Who knows the Grammy? The Grammy did not make us know you, Davido. We know you as a good singer. That is why we love you, not because of the Grammy.”
He also cautioned Davido against negative influences, saying, “Be careful. You are already on top of the world.
“The world is the one that will come to you. Don’t allow people to demoralise you, reduce your quality, or make you weak.”
Davido was nominated in the Best African Music Performance category for his collaboration with Omah Lay on With You at the 68th Grammy Awards.
Also nominated in the category were Burna Boy (Love), Wizkid and Ayra Starr (Gimme Dat), and Tyla (Push 2 Start), who ultimately won the award for the second consecutive year.
Odumeje has long been a figure of public controversy, rising to fame through his unorthodox preaching style and claims of supernatural abilities.
In 2024, he responded to critics who accused him of wielding fake powers by boldly declaring himself “a liquid metal.”
Last year, the cleric also declared his intention to run for Nigeria’s presidential seat.
