A video of Ghanaian cleric Prophet Ogyaba, also known as Emmanuel Akwasi Boakye, has generated controversy after footage of an unusual church scene spread rapidly across social media. The clip, which went viral on September 26, 2026, shows the founder of Holiness of Christ Zion Ministry stepping over handkerchiefs and clothing that his church members had laid out along his path. The video, running for under two minutes, also captured congregants dropping to their knees as the prophet made his way towards the altar.

The footage has ignited a sharp debate online, with netizens divided over the biblical basis of the act and the role of religion in Ghana. A section of viewers questioned whether the practice has any grounding in scripture, arguing that such displays cross a line between spiritual leadership and veneration of a person. Others pushed back, describing the act as symbolic and consistent with certain expressions of faith.

Beyond the specific scene, the video has also reignited broader frustration about the direction of organised religion in Ghana, with some commenters voicing disappointment in churches generally, and others going further to argue that religion has become more harmful than helpful in the country. This debate comes at a time when Prophet Ogyaba is already in the public eye, having recently made headlines after taking aim at the Ghana Revenue Authority.

Prophet Ogyaba's remark, "Why didn't you ask about my income before taking my taxes?" drew significant attention and added another layer to the ongoing public conversation about his outspoken approach to both civic and spiritual matters. The cleric's comments were made in response to the Ghana Revenue Authority deducting taxes from him, sparking questions about his income and tax obligations.

Social media users have shared mixed reactions to the video of Prophet Ogyaba walking on his church members' clothes. Some have expressed confusion and skepticism, while others have defended the practice as a legitimate expression of faith. The reactions have been varied, with some users questioning the prophet's motives and others praising his bold approach to spirituality.

This is not the first time Prophet Ogyaba has made headlines for his prophecies and outspoken views. Earlier, he made a prophecy concerning Ghanaian spiritualist Karma President, claiming to have seen him hospitalised with a swollen stomach and damaged intestines during a church service. The warning has attracted attention because Karma President is known for making doom prophecies about prominent Ghanaian figures.

The controversy surrounding Prophet Ogyaba's church ritual has sparked a wider conversation about the role of religion in Ghana and the limits of spiritual leadership. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the prophet and his ministry will respond to the criticism and praise. The incident has also raised questions about the accountability of religious leaders and the need for transparency in their dealings.

Key points

  • Prophet Ogyaba's viral church ritual has sparked heated debate online about the biblical basis of the act and the role of religion in Ghana.
  • The cleric's outspoken approach to civic and spiritual matters has added to the controversy surrounding his ministry.
  • The incident has raised questions about the accountability of religious leaders and the need for transparency in their dealings.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.