Again, Nigerian Pastor Jeremiah Fufeyin Sparks Controversy by Selling “Holy” Sand from Jerusalem to Followers [VIDEO]

 

A fresh wave of controversy has erupted in Nigeria’s religious landscape, and it centers around Prophet Jeremiah Omoto Fufeyin, founder of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry. The popular preacher, known for his flamboyant style and prophetic claims, is now making headlines after launching what he calls “Jerusalem Sand,” a spiritual item he claims holds miraculous powers.

Video footage that recently surfaced online shows the preacher showcasing the sand before a congregation, emphasizing its spiritual potency. Followers can be seen reacting with awe and enthusiasm, some even going into fits of excitement after touching or holding the product. This latest move by Fufeyin has ignited a flurry of reactions from religious observers, critics, and members of the public who view the practice with skepticism and concern.

The sand, according to Fufeyin, was sourced directly from Jerusalem, the sacred city revered by Christians worldwide. He insists that it is not just ordinary soil, but spiritually charged ground with biblical relevance and divine energy. Speaking before his congregation during a live service, he explained that the sand is meant to serve as a connection to the Holy Land and can be used for prayers, healing, and breakthroughs.

His supporters are already hailing it as a powerful gift from God. A few have come forward claiming that the sand healed ailments or brought financial turnarounds. Testimonials circulated by the ministry speak of miraculous debt cancellations, overnight healing, and even resolved family disputes. One church member, in tears, recounted how touching the sand restored her child's speech after months of silence. Another claimed her long-stalled visa application was suddenly approved after praying with the product.

While some are embracing the phenomenon with religious fervor, others are raising red flags. Religious scholars and pastors from other denominations have not held back in their criticism. Many argue that Fufeyin is once again exploiting the desperation of vulnerable believers, particularly those in economically strained regions. The debate has quickly spilled onto social media, where hashtags like #JerusalemSand and #ProphetFufeyin began trending, with users mocking the move as another gimmick in the growing list of unconventional practices among Nigerian prosperity preachers.

Social commentator and theologian Rev. Dr. Sunday Adekunle called the trend “deeply troubling,” stating that it reflects a dangerous blending of commerce with spirituality. “We are witnessing the commercialization of faith in ways that are alarming. Selling sand in the name of Jerusalem is nothing short of manipulating biblical symbolism for personal gain,” he said during a radio interview in Lagos.

Critics have also pointed out the potential legal and ethical implications. Some legal experts suggest that if the sand was indeed imported, there may be questions surrounding customs documentation and authenticity. Others note that this could potentially violate consumer protection laws if the product is marketed with unverifiable or false claims.

Still, Fufeyin remains unfazed. He insists that he is fulfilling a divine mandate and that those who doubt him are spiritually blind. His church has released promotional materials showing the pastor holding bags of sand, urging followers to come in person to receive their portion. According to church insiders, the item is not being sold with a fixed price but is available through “freewill donations,” a common loophole used by many faith-based sellers to avoid regulatory scrutiny.

This is not the first time Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin has made headlines for controversial spiritual items. In past years, he has introduced miracle water, anointing oils, and wristbands said to carry healing properties. Each product typically follows a pattern: introduced during a large televised service, followed by a series of dramatic testimonies and emotional conversions.

With Nigeria’s complex mix of economic challenges and deeply rooted religious culture, charismatic figures like Fufeyin continue to draw massive followings. The allure of fast miracles, especially when tied to relics or imported holy symbols, remains a powerful magnet. For millions who live in uncertainty, the promise of a quick spiritual solution can be more convincing than policy or economic reform.

Observers warn, however, that without a stronger framework for religious accountability and consumer protection, many may continue to fall victim to exploitative practices masked as divine intervention. As more attention turns to the so-called Jerusalem Sand, it remains to be seen whether it will be remembered as a moment of faith, a calculated hustle, or yet another chapter in Nigeria’s ever-evolving religious theater.

Video: Nigerian Pastor Jeremiah Omoto Fufeyin is now selling sand of Jerusalem 😳 pic.twitter.com/28kaa1REpw

— Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) June 22, 2025