In a poignant eulogy, Prophet Gideon Danso, the founder and lead pastor of the Empowerment Worship Center has commemorated the life and spiritual journey of the late rapper Andy Nii Akrashie, affectionately known as OJ Blaq.
The prominent figure in the Ghanaian Christian community reflected on OJ Blaq’s incredible transformation from a secular musician to a devoted follower of Christ, highlighting his journey of faith, service, and inspiration to others.
Danso, known for his leadership and friendship with OJ Blaq, shared a heartfelt message via social media on the passing of the man he called a ‘son’.
“My son, the one and only Andy Nii Akrashie (@ojblaqgh) has crossed over from time into eternity. We know who you became and where you are now. Therefore, we don’t sorrow as those who don’t have hope,” he posted
He acknowledged that while the moment is marked by grief for those left behind, it also holds a significant celebration in heaven—a moment of victory in God’s kingdom.
He stated, “GOD HAS RECEIVED HIS OWN!__Today marks a day of a great day of celebration in heaven, a moment of victory in God’s kingdom but a time of grief for me!”
He further highlighted OJ Blaq’s work through his music and his personal experiences which touched the lives of many, guiding them towards Christ and instilling a strong foundation in their faith.
He continued: “He was a great soldier of God’s kingdom who denied himself to fight for many to come to Christ and be rooted in GOD! He was an inspiring servant who used his past experiences to bring others into Christ! He was a wise son who testified of GOD’s healing and salvation so that others may join and be grounded in this House @empowermentworshipcentre!”
OJ Blaq’s path was marked by resilience, having twice cheated death after battling kidney failure.
These close calls with mortality seemed to awaken a profound spiritual awakening within him.
According to multiple sources, he turned away from his former secular music career and a lifestyle of binge drinking/smoking and embraced gospel music, releasing the album “SHOW DEM.”
This turning point led him to find solace and purpose in his newfound faith while serving under the leadership of Gideon Danso until his passing on August 16, 2023, in Accra.
“He gave his all as he served in our prayer, Fixed Teens, Music and Discovery Teams. Congratulations son! You served the Lord with your all and in joy till the end,” he added.
The eulogy concludes with a heartfelt farewell to the departed, expressing love and pride for a life well-lived in service to God’s purpose.
“Till we meet again son! I love you! We are proud of you,” he ended.