The Story of Pastor Ezekiel Odero: Rise, Faith, and Controversy

Early Life

Pastor Ezekiel Odero was born on Rusinga Island in Homa Bay County.
He grew up in humble conditions and faced many struggles early in life.
After finishing school, he moved to Mombasa in search of better opportunities.

While in Mombasa, he took on casual jobs — including construction and cleaning — just to survive.
However, his true passion was ministry.
He joined Maximum Miracle Centre under Pastor Pius Muiru, where he led worship and taught music.
This experience became the foundation of his future calling.

Starting His Ministry

Later, Pastor Ezekiel and his wife Sarah Odero decided to start their own ministry.
In the early 2010s, they founded the New Life Prayer Centre and Church (NLPC).
The church began in Shanzu, Mombasa, before moving to Mavueni, Kilifi County, where it quickly expanded.

To accommodate the growing number of followers, the couple purchased over 60 acres of land.
On this land, they built a vast complex featuring a church, dormitories, a restaurant, schools, and housing.
As a result, the church became one of the largest and fastest-growing ministries on Kenya’s Coast.

Growth and Popularity

Over time, Pastor Ezekiel gained a reputation for preaching about faith, healing, and prosperity.
His messages focused on prayer, deliverance, and breaking spiritual bondage.
As a result, many Kenyans began to view him as a powerful man of God.

Furthermore, his sermons reached global audiences through New Life TV and YouTube.
Videos from his crusades often show massive crowds praying, crying, and seeking miracles.
Therefore, his influence spread far beyond the church walls — turning him into one of Kenya’s most recognized pastors.

Controversies and Legal Issues

However, fame came with trouble.
In April 2023, Pastor Ezekiel was arrested in Kilifi following investigations into alleged deaths at his church.

Authorities linked him to the Shakahola tragedy, a national scandal involving mass graves connected to cult activities.

As a result, the government temporarily closed his church and suspended his TV station’s licence.
Later, in 2024, the Registrar of Societies revoked his church’s registration over compliance concerns.

Despite this, Pastor Ezekiel denied all allegations.
He insisted that his ministry focuses on saving souls, not harming people.
Meanwhile, his loyal followers continued to defend him, saying he was being unfairly targeted.

Public Reaction

Across Kenya, opinions about Pastor Ezekiel remain deeply divided.
On one hand, his supporters describe him as a man of deep faith who prays for the sick and the needy.
On the other hand, critics accuse him of using religion for personal gain.

Consequently, the government has increased its scrutiny of religious institutions.
Officials say the aim is to protect Kenyans from exploitation and unsafe practices in unregulated churches.

Faith and Wealth

Undeniably, Pastor Ezekiel’s journey shows the link between faith and prosperity in modern Kenya.
From a poor island boy, he rose to become one of the country’s most influential preachers.
His Mavueni complex is not only a church but also a community hub with schools and businesses.

Yet, critics argue that such massive projects blur the line between ministry and money.
Still, to his followers, Pastor Ezekiel remains an inspiration — a symbol of what faith can achieve.

Upcoming Kisumu Meeting

Looking ahead, Pastor Ezekiel is planning a major prayer meeting in Kisumu this December.
Although official details have not been fully confirmed, his team has hinted at the event through social media.
According to early reports, the Kisumu crusade will focus on healing, deliverance, and thanksgiving.

This gathering is expected to draw thousands of believers from western Kenya and beyond.
It could also mark Pastor Ezekiel’s public comeback after months of legal challenges.

Current Situation

As of November 2025, Pastor Ezekiel Odero still faces court cases related to deaths in Kilifi.
His church and television licences remain suspended.
Even so, he continues to preach, often holding smaller services while awaiting the court’s final decision.

Interestingly, his popularity has not faded.
Many Kenyans continue to follow his teachings both online and in person.

Conclusion

In summary, Pastor Ezekiel Odero’s story is one of hope, controversy, and resilience.
From Rusinga to Mavueni — and now possibly Kisumu — he has touched many lives and sparked national debate.

Whether viewed as a genuine servant of God or a preacher under scrutiny, his journey highlights Kenya’s complex relationship with faith and leadership.
As the December meeting approaches, the nation watches closely — waiting to see whether his ministry will rise again or face another storm.