Evangelist Helen Ukpabio has sparked debate after denouncing “happy birthday” as a devilish phrase tied to idolatrous traditions.
In a viral video, she urged Christians to abandon worldly birthday rituals, calling instead for God-centered celebrations like “thanking God at 60.
Evangelist Helen Ukpabio, founder of Liberty Foundation Gospel Ministries in Calabar, Cross River State, has stirred controversy with her recent comments criticizing the use of the phrase. “happy birthday.” In a video now circulating on social media, the evangelist addressed her congregation with a stern message, urging Nigerians to reconsider the way they celebrate birthdays.
Speaking during a church service, Ukpabio described the widely used birthday greeting as “the language of the devil.” She argued that such pleasantries are rooted in what she referred to as modern-day idolatry, cautioning Christians against adopting worldly traditions that do not align with biblical teachings.
Rather than celebrate birthdays in the conventional sense, Ukpabio explained that she marks her personal milestones by giving thanks to God. Referencing her own recent celebration, she said, “You won’t see the word ‘birthday’ on my banner. What you will see is ‘thanking God at 60.’ I do not subscribe to the annual birthday rituals like a zombie. I will not sell out my soul to the devil like that.”
She went on to criticize the popular culture of birthday celebrations, especially among Christians, saying, “People go around saying ‘happy birthday’ without realizing the spiritual implications of those words. These are greetings that have become common in a world influenced by idolatry.”
Ukpabio was particularly critical of Christians who sing birthday songs in church, labeling it as spiritually misplaced. “You’ll sometimes find a Christian singing “happy birthday” too.
Watch the video below:
