Evangelist Helen Ukpabio Condemns ‘Happy Birthday’ Greetings, Labels Them as Devil’s Language [VIDEO]

 

Evangelist Helen Ukpabio, a well-known Nigerian preacher and founder of the Liberty Foundation Gospel Ministries headquartered in Calabar, Cross River State, has sparked fresh controversy with her outspoken remarks on birthday celebrations and the common phrase “happy birthday.”

During a fiery sermon captured in a now-viral video, the evangelist denounced the popular birthday greeting, claiming it is rooted in what she described as “modern-day idolatry” and satanic influence. Addressing a captivated congregation, Ukpabio did not mince words as she urged Nigerians to refrain from using what she deemed “the devil’s language.”

She expressed strong disdain for what she sees as the commercialization and spiritual compromise attached to annual birthday festivities, stating that she herself does not partake in yearly birthday observances. “I am not somebody that does birthday every year like Zombie,” she declared, reinforcing her point with the assertion that such practices are spiritually dangerous and fundamentally anti-Christian. “I don’t sell out my soul to the devil like that,” she added, visibly passionate as she preached.

Rather than marking her birth anniversaries with cake, candles, and cheerful gatherings, Ukpabio prefers an alternative approach. She revealed that her own celebration was titled “Thanking God at 60,” a deliberate departure from the secularized format embraced globally. The preacher insisted that her language and practice reflect a deeper spiritual understanding, one not tainted by what she described as worldly rituals.

Critics and supporters alike have taken to social media to debate her comments. While some consider her words as an overreach and an unnecessary rejection of innocent social traditions, others see her stance as a wake-up call to believers to re-examine seemingly benign customs. Her central argument is rooted in the belief that words carry spiritual energy and power. “Energy you don’t vest spiritually, don’t say it,” she warned. According to her, even uttering “happy birthday” without reflection exposes one to spiritual compromise.

Ukpabio extended her criticism to churches and Christian individuals who partake in birthday celebrations without considering their origin or spiritual implications. “You can even see a Christian singing happy birthday to you on the pulpit,” she lamented. “Then after that you say it doesn’t mean. It means.”

Her assertions challenge a widely accepted and globally normalized custom. For millions around the world, birthdays are moments of joy, reflection, and community. But Ukpabio sees more than just celebration — she sees infiltration. She believes the language and practice of birthdays are satanically inspired tools meant to erode spiritual vigilance among Christians.

The controversial evangelist is no stranger to bold statements. She has previously drawn public attention for her outspoken positions on spiritual warfare, witchcraft, and child deliverance. Her Liberty Foundation Gospel Ministries has long been associated with intense revival services and teachings steeped in charismatic Pentecostal theology.

As expected, her recent remarks have reignited debate about how much of modern life and culture is acceptable within Christian practice. Should traditions like birthday celebrations be abandoned because of perceived spiritual risks? Or are such statements a reflection of extreme religious interpretations disconnected from everyday faith practice?

Church leaders and theologians across the country have yet to release formal responses, but informal discussions have already begun within Christian forums, WhatsApp groups, and community gatherings. Many are asking whether Helen Ukpabio’s warning is a prophetic insight or a doctrinal overstep.

Still, for her congregation and followers, the message was clear and convicting. She called for a linguistic and cultural separation from what she considers pagan-rooted customs. Quoting from Scripture, she emphasized, “The Bible says we should not speak their language,” positioning her argument as more than personal conviction, but as biblical instruction.

Her sermon concluded with a call for spiritual awareness in daily life, urging believers to be cautious not only in action but also in speech. As the video continues to circulate online, one thing is certain — Ukpabio has once again succeeded in stirring conversation, challenging norms, and polarizing public opinion on the line between faith and culture.