A popular Nigerian Pentecostal pastor, Ezekiel Atang, has died three weeks to his 50th birthday. The pastor died on February 21 at Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital where his church, God’s House of Refuge is located.
The pastor had sent out invitation cards to his planned birthday which would have been held on March 14, 2022.
The invitation titled, Invitation To My Golden Jubilee Birthday Celebration, reads: “I want to specially invite you to my 50th birthday celebration on Monday 14th, 2022 at Ibom Hotels and Golf Resort, Uyo.
“As you know, God has been faithful in my life’s journey and has brought me this far.
“This and my 50th birthday celebration is significant in many ways and I want to use this occasion to celebrate God’s goodness upon my life.
“It will be a great honour to have you celebrate that day with me. Thank you for accepting this invitation as I look forward to seeing you.”
His friend and popular preacher, Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo of the David’s Christian Centre, posted a short tribute on Instagram saying his friend died on the day he received the birthday invite.
“My brother and my friend, my partner in family life mandate to the body of Christ.
“You left an indelible mark, and unforgettable legacy, you spoke with clarity and conviction, loved by all, we will definitely miss you
“I received the invitation to your 50th birthday celebration same day you went to be with the Lord
“I’m happy I spoke to you and saw you a few days before you went to be with the Lord, we love you – you will never be forgotten on this side.”