Pastor Odumeje Urges Followers to Shun DNA Tests, Cites Igbo Cultural Beliefs

Controversial cleric, Chukwuemeka Odumeje, has stirred public debate after advising his church members to desist from conducting DNA tests, describing the practice as contrary to Igbo cultural values.

In a viral message circulating online, the Onitsha-based pastor maintained that any child born within a marriage should be accepted as belonging to the husband, regardless of doubts about paternity. According to him, questioning a child’s lineage through DNA testing undermines traditional beliefs and family unity.

Odumeje further expressed skepticism about the credibility of DNA testing processes, particularly within Nigeria, urging his followers to rely on trust and cultural norms rather than scientific verification.

The cleric’s comments come amid a growing trend in Nigeria where DNA testing has become increasingly popular in resolving paternity disputes and family-related conflicts.

His stance has since generated mixed reactions across social media, with some supporting his appeal to cultural values, while others argue that DNA testing remains a vital tool for establishing truth and accountability in modern society.