5 Facts about Sammie Okposo

The death of renowned gospel singer, Sammie Okposo, shocked many people. This was due to the fact that there were no prior public information about him being sick. However, there have been opinions that the criticisms he got when he announced his infidelity issue in January, 2022, probably got the best part of him.

The Senior Pastor of Omega Fire Ministries, Apostle Johnson Suleman, also called out those who condemned the singer after the incident. The cleric wrote on his Facebook page on Friday, “Now they post his pictures but never reached out in his trying times. He told me what pastors did to him and we both wept. Love has left the church. We have more ‘lawyers’ who are ready to judge than intercessors ready to restore. Rest in power my brother. You conquered!”

Regardless of this news about him, there are other interesting facts about the ‘Welu Welu’ master, as he is fondly called. Let us take a look at some of them.

He started from Nollywood

Okposo started his music career from the film industry over two decades ago. He produced the soundtracks of most movies which gave his career some recognition. Thereafter, he delved into the music industry full time.

Read Also: Nigerians mourn Sammie Okposo

In President Muhammadu Buhari’s condolence message to the Okposo family, signed by his Media aide, Femi Adesina, he said, “…The President notes the unique platform of worship created by Okposo, Okposo Praise Party, his creative contributions to the Nigerian film industry, Nigeria. Also, and the inspiring role he played in grooming talents and mentoring them to stardom…”

His style was dynamic and evergreen

If one was to mention a veteran singer who can conveniently match the energy of the younger generation, that would be Sammie Okposo. He was not only gifted, he was dynamic. His song, ‘Welu Welu’ has stood the test of time. Hence, the song is expected to outlive him, even after his death. Another characteristic of Okposo was his ability to carry his audience along. There was no dull moment with him.

He had successful albums

Although Okposo was often described as the Welu Welu master, some of his other songs were also a hit. They included ‘Good God’, ‘Addicted’, ‘Na Only You’, ‘Sing Your Praise’, and many more. He also did some collaboration with other artistes including Akpororo. He was the Chief Executive Officer of Zamar Entertainment and had some successful albums to his credit. They are ‘Unconditional Love’ (2000) which had ‘Welu Welu’ in it, ‘Addicted’ (2004) and his latest was ‘Statement’ (2018).

He represented the Niger Delta region

The music video of ‘Welu Welu’ had the trademark of a man from the Niger Delta region whose desire was to praise God. His father was from Delta State while his mother was from Cross River State. His traditional praise style was usually with the white handkerchief. With his energetic and inspiring performances, it was clear that Okposo was born for the music world.

He bagged several awards

The late singer had numerous awards to his name. Some of them included KORA Best Gospel Artist in Africa (2006), Crown SABC Best of African Gospel (2014), Afro Hollywood UK Best Gospel Artiste (2005), NEA Best Gospel Artiste (2007 and 2013), African Gospel Music and Media Awards (2017), among others. He was also a Globacom ambassador and United Nations Peace Ambassador.

British author, George Elliot said, “Our dead are never dead to us until we have forgotten them.” Okposo may be dead but his memory will always live in the hearts of those he touched, especially with his songs.

May his soul rest in peace.