Johnson Progress

Ghanaian authorities arrested a self-proclaimed prophet on New Year’s Eve after his widely circulated prediction that the world would end in a catastrophic flood on Christmas Day proved false.

Ebo Noah, 30, who also goes by the name “Ebo Jesus,” is facing scrutiny for causing public alarm with his prophecy of a three-year deluge beginning December 25, 2025.

The arrest follows weeks of international attention and domestic disruption sparked by the prophet’s claims.

Videos shared across social media in late December showed large crowds gathering at various “ark sites” in Ghana, where wooden structures had been built in anticipation of the predicted disaster.

Reports indicated that thousands from Ghana and neighboring African nations had traveled to these locations, some preparing to board the vessels.

In a statement explaining the arrest, police expressed serious concern over the widespread panic induced by the prophecy, particularly among Ghanaians living abroad.

The prophet was detained for 72 hours before being released.

Officials clarified that while his statements stirred fear, making religious prophecies is not inherently a criminal act under Ghanaian law.

Prior to the non-event, Ebo Noah had gained prominence starting in August by posting videos documenting the construction of wooden arks with the help of local fishermen.

He claimed these vessels would save humanity from floods mirroring the biblical story of Noah.

Critics, however, questioned their authenticity, suggesting they resembled ordinary fishing boats incapable of holding massive numbers of people.

Facing growing skepticism, the prophet announced a sudden postponement of the apocalyptic event on December 24.

In a video message, he explained the reversal by claiming to have received a new vision.

He stated that intercessory prayers had revealed the existing arks were insufficient for the overwhelming number of people seeking refuge.

“Following prayers with other men of God, the Lord has granted more time to build more arks,” Noah said, urging his followers to remain home and celebrate the holidays with their families.

Throughout the controversy, Ebo Noah maintained his divine mandate.

In several interviews, he made an extraordinary claim about the scope of his project, asserting, “My ark can accommodate up to 600 million people worldwide.”

He insisted the initiative was community-driven and denied profiting from it, cautioning believers against drastic life changes.

“I am not selling tickets or taking funds from followers,” he stated.

“People should not quit their jobs or sell property based on my prophecy.”

The prophecy ignited intense debate, especially when skeptics cited the biblical covenant where God promises never to destroy the world again by flood.

When confronted with this scripture, the prophet argued for divine flexibility, paraphrasing biblical accounts to suggest God could alter His plans.

The recent arrest marks a significant turn in a saga that blended religious fervor, public anxiety, and sharp criticism, leaving a nation to grapple with the societal impact of unfulfilled prophecies.