Pastor Abraham, a close ally of Prophet David Owuor in Kenya, has stirred controversy by claiming that all football fans worship the devil and are headed to hell. He pointed to Manchester United’s nickname, “Red Devils”, as clear proof of evil in the sport.
In a recent radio clip that spread online, Pastor Abraham said in Swahili, “Ni wazi kabisa wafuasi wote wa mpira wanaabudu mashetani na wanaenda jehanamu. Imagine kuna timu inaitwa Mashetani Nyekundu (Manchester United). Huo ni uovu mtupu, wanamwabudu shetani.” That translates to saying it’s obvious football followers worship demons and will end up in hell. He called the team’s name pure evil, suggesting fans are honouring Satan by supporting it.
The statement comes from Pastor Abraham, who often speaks for the Ministry of Repentance and Holiness. The church, led by Owuor from Nakuru, focuses on strict repentance and warnings about end times. Followers avoid many everyday activities seen as worldly. Football, with its huge crowds and passion, fits that category for them. Pastor Abraham’s words fit the ministry’s style of bold preaching against popular culture.
Kenyans reacted fast on social media. Posts on Facebook and Instagram got thousands of shares and comments in hours. Many laughed it off or got angry. Football is massive here, especially the English Premier League. Teams like Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea have loyal fans across towns and villages. Supporters meet in bars or homes to watch matches, wearing jerseys and cheering loudly. For some, it’s more than a game—it’s community.
Manchester United fans took it personally. The “Red Devils” nickname goes back decades, from a rugby link, not anything religious. One fan commented on a viral post, “We’ve supported United for years, and now this? It’s just a name.” Others joked about switching teams to avoid hell. A few agreed with the pastor, saying sports distract from faith.
This isn’t the first time Owuor’s group has hit headlines for strong views. The prophet claims visions and miracles, drawing big crowds to events. But critics call some teachings extreme. Recently, another pastor from the church offered proof of healings to the government. Now this football claim adds to the talk.
Online, the clip spread on pages like RN Media and Plug TV. One Instagram reel got heavy views, with people debating in comments. Some asked why single out United when other teams have fierce names. Others said pastors should focus on real issues like poverty or corruption.
In Kenya, religion and daily life mix a lot. Many go to church on Sunday, then watch football. Pastors often speak on morals, but linking a sport to devil worship surprised even regular churchgoers. A commenter wrote, “Football brings joy; how is that bad?”
He preaches in local stations, reaching listeners in rural areas. The ministry pushes holiness, warning against entertainment like music or movies too. The club has fans worldwide, including in Africa. Kenyan players have even trained there.
As the clip keeps circulating, more people weigh in. Some see it as free speech, others as dividing folks over harmless fun. In a country where Premier League matches stop traffic, this view stands out.
Owuor’s church keeps growing despite controversies. Events pack stadiums with white-clad followers. But statements like this draw critics who say it pushes people away.
For now, football fans carry on. Matches go ahead, jerseys sell, and debates rage online. Pastor Abraham’s words sparked talk, but they are unlikely to empty viewing centres anytime soon.
This kind of preaching reminds us faith means different things to different people. Some take it strictly; others balance it with life’s joys. In Kenya, both sides have a voice. The story is fresh, from just yesterday. More reactions might come as weekend games near. Fans will watch, and pastors will preach.
