By Emeka Blast 
‘I’ll Die on a Sunday After Eating Pounded Yam’ — Pastor Adeboye
Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, the revered 83-year-old General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has reaffirmed his vision of passing away peacefully on a Sunday after attending church service and enjoying his favorite meal, pounded yam. The statement, delivered during a sermon titled “Possess Your Possessions” on the fourth day of the RCCG’s 73rd Annual International Convention themed “The Overcomers” at the Redemption Camp in Ogun State on August 7, 2025, has stirred a mix of awe, reflection, and humor among Nigerians, sparking widespread discussions on social media and beyond.
Speaking to thousands of worshippers, Pastor Adeboye, born March 2, 1942, reiterated a vision he first shared two years ago, stating, “I will die on a Sunday after attending service, eat my beloved pounded yam, and then pass on without any sickness.” He emphasized that his departure would be sudden and painless, challenging the notion that death must involve prolonged illness. “Death can come peacefully for those in Christ,” he said, framing his prediction as a testament to faith and divine assurance. The cleric, known for his humility and spiritual authority, used the moment to encourage believers to fearlessly claim their spiritual inheritance, drawing from biblical examples like Jacob’s tenacity in Genesis 32.
The announcement, reported by Vanguard News and Gatekeepers News, resonated deeply with attendees at the convention, which concluded on August 10 with a Thanksgiving service. Adeboye’s vision painted a serene picture of worship, fellowship, and a cherished Nigerian dish, reframing mortality as a gentle transition for believers. However, it also drew varied reactions. On X, @NigeriaStories tweeted, “Pastor Adeboye predicts his own d€ath: Sunday, church, pounded yam, then peace. #Chai,” while @NaijaGist humorously noted, “His wife better skip pounded yam on Sundays! #Adeboye.” Critics, like @TruthSeekerNG, questioned the specificity, asking, “Can anyone truly predict their death like this?”
Adeboye’s sermon also urged Christians to fight for their divine rights, such as healing and prosperity, citing John 10:10 to highlight spiritual opposition from “the thief who comes to steal, kill, and destroy.” He clarified his focus on holiness over prosperity preaching, stating, “Everybody knows I’m not a prosperity preacher,” addressing critics who have long scrutinized his ministry’s wealth. The convention, attended by millions globally, also celebrated 50 babies born at the camp’s maternity center, underscoring RCCG’s broader impact.
The prediction has sparked lighthearted commentary, with some on X joking about ensuring Adeboye’s wife, Pastor Folu Adeboye, avoids serving pounded yam on Sundays to “prolong his life.” Others, like @EagleEyeNG, called it “a powerful reminder to live ready,” reflecting Adeboye’s influence as a spiritual father to millions. The statement comes amid Nigeria’s economic challenges, with 34.6% inflation, prompting some to view his message of hope and faith as timely.
