Jimmy Odukoya Reacts As Remarriage Announcement Sparks Reactions

Nigerian cleric and Nollywood actor, Pastor Jimmy Odukoya, has responded to criticism trailing his decision to remarry, saying he would not allow people who had not made personal sacrifices for him to dictate how he lives his life.

Odukoya came under public scrutiny after unveiling his new wife, Pastor Mo Odukoya, during a Sunday service at The Fountain of Life Church in Ilupeju, Lagos, on November 1, 2026.

The announcement followed a social media post he shared a day earlier, featuring a photograph of two hands wearing wedding rings with the caption, “To New Beginnings.”

Introducing his wife to the congregation, the senior pastor explained that he had spent years navigating life alone since assuming leadership of the church before eventually finding a suitable partner.

“Ever since I became a pastor, I have been doing this work of life alone. The Bible said it’s not good. I was looking and searching and I found,” he told the congregation.

However, his decision to remarry generated mixed reactions on social media, with some users questioning the development and raising concerns about his previous marriage.

Responding to the criticism in a post on his Instagram page, Odukoya maintained that he would not be pressured into defending his personal choices.

”If you cannot die for me, don’t pressure me. If you didn’t die for me, you can’t condemn me,” he wrote.

Odukoya was previously married to Oluwakemi Banjoko, popularly known as Kemi Odukoya. The couple tied the knot in London in March 2013 and have two children together before their separation.

He is the son of the late founders of The Fountain of Life Church, Pastors Taiwo and Bimbo Odukoya. He became the church’s senior pastor in 2023 following the death of his father, Pastor Taiwo Odukoya, on August 7 of the same year.

Beyond his ministry, Jimmy Odukoya is also an actor and musician. He gained international recognition for his role as Oba Ade in the Hollywood historical drama, The Woman King, starring alongside Viola Davis.