Nigerian gospel ministers Nathaniel Bassey and Victoria Orenze have joined the growing number of global voices mourning the tragic death of American conservative activist and media personality Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, during a public event in Utah, United States.
Kirk, 31, was speaking at Utah Valley University when the incident occurred at approximately 12:20 p.m. in a student courtyard.
According to law enforcement officials, the area had been secured by six campus police officers, but a gunman allegedly fired from an elevated position, striking the activist fatally in the neck.
Despite immediate medical attention, Kirk succumbed to his injuries on the scene, leaving behind his wife, Erika, and their two young children.
Renowned gospel artist Nathaniel Bassey, known for the global Hallelujah Challenge, expressed his grief in a heartfelt message shared via social media.
Nathaniel Bassey, who often uses his platform to address social and spiritual issues, described Kirk’s passing as painful but affirmed faith in his eternal rest.
“Pained. Rest in the Lord, Charlie Kirk,” Bassey wrote in a short but emotional tribute.
Bassey’s words resonated deeply with his millions of followers, many of whom echoed sentiments of loss and solidarity with Kirk’s family.
Another gospel singer, Victoria Orenze, issued a longer statement, describing Kirk as a “true soldier of Christ” who lived and died defending biblical truth.
“TRUTH CANNOT BE KILLED! TRUTH CANNOT BE SILENCED! TRUTH CANNOT BE STOPPED! Charlie Kirk, a true soldier of CHRIST, is with THE TRUTH (JESUS CHRIST)!!! What glory!” Orenze wrote.
She further declared that the tragedy would only inspire more believers to take a stand for their faith.
“For every time you try, Satan, an army rises instead! WE ARE NOT AFRAID!!!! His wife, children, and family are wrapped by the comfort of the HOLY GHOST in JESUS’ name!” she added.
Quoting from John 16:2, Orenze reminded Christians that such times were foretold and urged believers worldwide to stand boldly for their faith.
Charlie Kirk rose to prominence as the founder of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), a conservative youth organization established in 2012 when he was just 18.
The group became one of the largest conservative student movements in the United States, rallying young Republican voters and influencing political discourse across American campuses.
Known for his outspoken support of former President Donald Trump, Kirk was considered a key figure in mobilizing conservative youth activism.
His speeches, books, and digital presence made him one of the most recognizable voices in the conservative movement.
Following his death, Trump ordered that flags be flown at half-staff in Kirk’s honor, describing him as a “legendary patriot” while blaming the “radical left” for fueling the climate of hostility that led to the attack.
Kirk’s assassination has sparked widespread condemnation and grief across political, religious, and civic circles.
Former U.S. President Barack Obama and other world leaders also denounced the killing, warning against the rise of political violence and intolerance in democratic societies.
Authorities in Utah have launched a large-scale manhunt to apprehend the shooter, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
CCTV footage of a possible suspect has been obtained, and Utah Governor Spencer Cox has hinted at the possible use of capital punishment if the perpetrator is convicted.
Two men were briefly detained for questioning but later released after no evidence linked them directly to the shooting. The investigation remains ongoing.
The tributes from Nathaniel Bassey and Victoria Orenze underscore the global reach of Kirk’s influence, not only as a political figure but also as a vocal advocate of faith.
Many Nigerian Christians on social media expressed shock at the news, joining international voices in offering prayers for Kirk’s family.
For Bassey and Orenze, Kirk’s death is a sobering reminder of the turbulent times faced by Christians worldwide.
Their messages, rooted in faith and resilience, have further ignited conversations about the intersection of religion, politics, and social activism.
As the investigation continues, Charlie Kirk’s death has become a defining moment in the conversation about political violence in America and the global fight for freedom of expression and religious conviction.
His memory, now immortalized in tributes from leaders and believers across the globe, reflects a legacy of boldness, faith, and uncompromising advocacy.
For Nigerians, the words of Nathaniel Bassey and Victoria Orenze stand as both a tribute and a call to action — to remain steadfast in faith even in the face of adversity.