Pastor Oritsejafor opens up on secret cancer battle, $120,000 treatment, and recovery journey
Renowned cleric and founder of Word of Life Bible Church, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, has shared a deeply personal account of his hidden battle with cancer, revealing how he quietly endured intense pain, underwent major treatment abroad, and spent over $120,000 on medical care while maintaining a public face of strength.
The former President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) made the revelation in a video message shared on his Instagram page, where he reflected on faith, resilience, and the support he received during his health crisis.
Hidden struggle and public strength
Pastor Oritsejafor disclosed that doctors initially warned him the cancer had spread, leaving little hope.
However, further examinations in the United States revealed a different outcome, with medical experts describing the condition as not yet “ripe” and advising him to return after three months.
Despite the diagnosis, he returned to Nigeria and continued his ministerial duties, attending church programmes and even participating in celebrations while privately battling severe pain.
According to him, the decision to remain active was intentional, as he believed in becoming a “pillar” for others even in his weakest moments.
Emergency return and medical relief
After a church Jubilee Celebration, the pain reportedly worsened, prompting an urgent return to the United States. There, additional scans brought relief when doctors confirmed that the cancer had not spread to his bones.
He recalled being reassured after a critical scan, saying medical staff later confirmed there was no cancer in his bone.
Surgery, infection, and financial burden
Following surgery, the cleric said he spent months on a hospital bed and faced serious complications, including a rare infection that baffled doctors.
He noted that medical staff had to rely on experimental antibiotics before finding a combination that worked after several days.
During this period, hospital protocols required strict isolation procedures for visitors. However, his personal assistant, Bayo, reportedly remained by his side throughout his treatment, even against medical guidelines.
Pastor Oritsejafor also revealed that his medical expenses accumulated to about $120,000 during the course of treatment.
Loyalty beyond hospital rules
He praised his assistant for unwavering loyalty, recounting how Bayo insisted on accompanying him despite being told not to travel.
He also shared lighter moments from his recovery, including a humorous incident where his assistant intervened in his diet after a doctor loosely permitted him to eat anything he desired.
Message of faith and endurance
Concluding his testimony, the cleric urged believers to remain supportive of others regardless of personal inconvenience, describing it as part of true spiritual responsibility.
He encouraged perseverance in faith, even in silence and uncertainty, stressing that challenges do not negate God’s presence or purpose.
“Never stop being a pillar,” he said, emphasising endurance, compassion, and unwavering faith during difficult seasons.