In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram, Bassey—famed for spirit-lifting anthems such as “Imela” and “Hallelujah Challenge”—reflected on Ukpai’s profound influence on his life and ministry. He revealed that a recent inspiration to lead a mass evening fast was drawn directly from the late evangelist’s teachings.
“Oh! Dr Uma! Oh Papa Uma! Sometimes you wish some people would never die. What a man! Just a few days ago, I was inspired to lead multitudes in an evening fast—something I learnt from you,” he wrote.
“You called me SON. What a privilege. A man of God indeed—one of great power, immense stature, and impact. A man who knew the ways of the spirit, who knew how to deploy praise and worship in spiritual warfare and the supernatural. We ache, but heaven rejoices. Good night, papa.”
Ukpai, who passed away on October 6 at the age of 80, was the founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, a ministry famed for its healing and deliverance crusades that drew thousands across Nigeria and beyond. His passing was officially announced by his family on Monday, sparking widespread mourning within the Christian community.
Over the decades, Ukpai became a defining voice in Nigeria’s Pentecostal movement, inspiring ministers, musicians, and believers alike. Gospel artist Frank Edwards once credited him with performing a childhood miracle that transformed his faith journey.
Bassey’s tribute encapsulated the sense of loss felt by many within Nigeria’s faith community—mourning a man he called a spiritual father while celebrating a life that, in his words, continues to echo “in the ways of the Spirit.”