Introduction
This article explores the inspiring story of Brother Emmanuel Ogbonna (Bro. Emma) and Apostle Lazarus Chukwuoma (Bro. Lazarus) — the legendary gospel duo known as Voice of the Cross. These multitalented gospel singers, songwriters, pastors, and performers have made indelible marks on the history of Nigerian Christian music.
Born in 1953 and 1951 respectively, both men hail from Imo State, Nigeria, and share a remarkable spiritual journey that spans over five decades of gospel service.
Gratitude and Testimony
The duo, who have spent years ministering between Nigeria and the United States, expressed deep gratitude to God for His faithfulness and for preserving their lives in good health. They acknowledge that every achievement — both spiritual and musical — is by divine grace.
The Rise of Voice of the Cross
In the 1970s and 1980s, the voices of Bro. Emmanuel and Bro. Lazarus dominated the gospel airwaves across Nigeria — from Aba to Alaba in Lagos, Abakaliki to Abeokuta. Together, they formed the globally recognized group Voice of the Cross, whose message-centered songs transformed lives and brought revival to countless souls.
Their unforgettable classics include:
“Sing Hallelujah”
“Joy of Salvation”
“Thank You for Saving Me”
“Satan Is in Trouble”
“Good Morning, Jesus”
These timeless gospel tracks remain deeply rooted in Nigerian Christian culture and continue to bless listeners across generations.
The Ministry and Calling
When asked about his journey, Apostle Lazarus Chukwuoma revealed that he has been in gospel music for 48 years, describing it as a divine gift. He emphasizes that, as written in James 1:17, every good and perfect gift comes from God.
He explained that gospel music was never about personal fame or money, but about obeying God’s call and ministering through spiritual songs. Inspiration for their compositions, he said, comes directly from the Holy Spirit — sometimes as lyrics first, other times as melodies — both combining into songs that touch souls and draw people closer to God.
Separation and Distance
Although Bro. Emmanuel and Bro. Lazarus remain strong partners in ministry, distance has temporarily kept them from performing together frequently. The duo once relocated to the United States, but Bro. Lazarus returned to Nigeria after the death of his father, who lived to the age of 102.
As the first son, he returned home to ensure his father received a befitting burial. He also stated that his family could not join him abroad, and he felt led by God to return and continue the work of ministry in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, Bro. Emmanuel remained in the United States, recovering from an undisclosed health condition. Despite the distance, their bond remains strong, and they reunite to minister together whenever possible.
Passing the Torch
To sustain the Voice of the Cross legacy, Bro. Lazarus now ministers alongside his biological son, Lazarus Nkwachukwu Chukwuoma Jnr., who inherited Bro. Emmanuel’s role in harmony and song composition. The young Lazarus shares a similar vocal range, allowing the ministry’s music to continue with the same depth and anointing.
Recently, the group ministered at a church program organized by The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Movement, where their performance stirred worship and renewed faith among members and ministers.
Gospel Music and Today’s Generation
Reflecting on modern gospel music, Bro. Lazarus noted that many artists today are more focused on commercial success than spiritual impact. He compared this to the early days of gospel ministry when their primary mission was soul-winning.
He said:
“Some people are into gospel music for financial gain. But the vision that birthed the Voice of the Cross remains what it is — to reach out to souls with songs that can liberate and lift their spirit when they listen to them.”
Journey Into Gospel Music
Bro. Lazarus shared that his spiritual journey began in 1971, when he gave his life to Christ and became born again. Before then, he was a choral leader in school and loved music, but after salvation, his purpose changed. He realized God had called him to use his voice not for entertainment, but for ministry.
Advice to Upcoming Gospel Artists
He encouraged young and aspiring gospel singers to stay true to their divine calling and to maintain biblical standards in their character and music.
“Some people take gin before going on stage and claim it’s the Holy Spirit moving them — but it’s not. A true gospel minister is prayerful and Spirit-led. The difference shows when they sing.”
Pastoral Leadership and Family
In addition to music, Bro. Lazarus serves as the General Overseer of the Bible Church of Christ International (BCCI), headquartered in Imo State. The church is dedicated to evangelism, soul-winning, and spiritual growth, with music playing a major role in its outreach.
He is a father and grandfather, with all his children active in ministry — and four of them already married.
Faith, Friendship, and Legacy
Bro. Lazarus attributes his youthful strength at over 71 years old to the grace of God, saying, “It is the doing of the Lord.” He also fondly remembered his friendship with the late Patty Obassey, another great Igbo gospel artiste.
He recalled being present at Patty’s wedding in 1978 in Aba, at his send-off ceremony abroad, and again before his passing — proof of the deep bond shared among gospel pioneers.
Life Beyond Music
Before becoming a full-time minister, Bro. Lazarus was an automobile engineer, but he left the profession after receiving a clear instruction from God to focus on gospel music. He said:
“The Lord told me that the blessings He has for me are in singing spiritual songs. I don’t think I would have been as successful in any other venture as I am today.”
Message to Gospel Listeners
He urges believers to listen to gospel music with open hearts and allow its message to transform their lives, emphasizing that gospel songs carry divine power capable of healing, restoring, and strengthening faith.
Throwback Times Nigeria is of the opinion that the music duo has paid their dues in the gospel music industry. They're among the revolutionary of gospel music in Nigeria.
Conclusion
The story of Bro. Emmanuel and Bro. Lazarus — Voice of the Cross — is one of obedience, humility, and enduring faith. From humble beginnings in Imo State to global recognition, their legacy has inspired generations of worshippers.
Their names remain engraved on the sands of time, proving that when music is inspired by the Spirit of God, it never fades.
