Controversial Nigerian cleric Prophet Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere, popularly known as Odumeje, has opened up about his life before becoming a preacher, revealing that he was once paid to fight and beat people.

The Anambra-based pastor made the revelation during an appearance on the Honest Bunch podcast, where he reflected on his past and described the fighting reputation he claimed to have built before embracing preaching. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

According to Odumeje, he was known for his fighting abilities and would allegedly receive money to confront people. He also claimed that he was willing to take on multiple opponents, using the main market as a venue for some of the confrontations.

The cleric explained that his reputation was such that people would arrange dates for the fights, which he said attracted public attention.

“I used to be a dangerous fighter. They used to pay me to beat people. No matter how many they are, I will give them dates for their own beating inside the main market so that people will see me dealing with it,” Odumeje said.

His account has drawn attention to the contrast between the life he described and his current position as a religious leader.

In a striking detail from his account, Odumeje disclosed that the same market where he claimed to have engaged in fights later became a place where he began preaching.

The cleric’s story presents a sharp contrast between his alleged past activities and his subsequent emergence as a preacher known for his energetic sermons, dramatic expressions and unconventional style of ministry.

Over the years, Odumeje has become a widely discussed figure in Nigeria’s religious and entertainment spaces. His public appearances, unusual expressions and outspoken personality have frequently attracted attention on social media.

While his approach to ministry has generated both criticism and support, he remains a recognisable personality among audiences who follow religious discussions and celebrity interviews.

His latest revelation offers another glimpse into the personal history he has shared publicly, although the claims about his past fighting activities remain based on his own account during the podcast appearance.

The story has also highlighted how public figures sometimes reflect on earlier chapters of their lives when explaining the journeys that led them to their current positions.

For Odumeje, the reported transition from fighting in a marketplace to preaching in the same environment forms the central point of his account, illustrating the dramatic change he says took place in his life before becoming a prominent cleric.