Ghanaian Prophet Announces Ministry Withdrawal Following Failed Political Prophecy
A prominent Ghanaian religious leader has made the significant decision to step back from public ministry after his highly publicized political prophecy failed to come to pass. Prophet Bernard ElBernard Nelson-Eshun, founder of SpiritLife Revival Ministries in Accra, announced his temporary withdrawal from public preaching and prophetic declarations following the outcome of Ghana's New Patriotic Party presidential primaries.
Failed Prediction Sparks Public Apology
The controversy centers around Prophet ElBernard's confident prediction that businessman and former Member of Parliament Kennedy Agyapong would emerge victorious in the NPP presidential primaries ahead of the 2028 general election. Contrary to his forecast, former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia secured a decisive victory, winning 56.4 percent of votes compared to Agyapong's 23.7 percent.
What makes this situation particularly noteworthy is the prophet's public commitment to his prediction. Speaking on Asempa FM before the election, he declared: "I put 27 years of hearing from God and 18 years of pastoring the church on the line that Kennedy Agyapong will win the presidential primaries of the opposition party." He even authored a book containing a chapter dedicated to the prophecy, detailing how the 65-year-old politician would clinch the party's ticket.
Immediate Accountability and Responsibility
Minutes after the official results were confirmed, Prophet ElBernard issued a public apology, demonstrating remarkable accountability. "That word did not come to pass. I missed it. I was wrong, and I am sorry. I ask for your forgiveness," he stated in his apology.
He further acknowledged the broader impact of his words, saying: "Because I spoke publicly with prophetic authority, many people trusted what I said and were affected emotionally, spiritually and politically. I take full responsibility for this prophetic word and apologise to everyone who trusted me but ended up hurt and disappointed."
Temporary Withdrawal from Public Ministry
During a subsequent church service, the 45-year-old prophet informed his congregation about his decision to temporarily withdraw from public ministry. "In the spirit of responsibility, I have decided to step back from public teaching, preaching and pulpit ministry. This is to allow me time to reflect, pray and seek better understanding of how revelations should be handled," he explained.
He reassured church members that he would remain involved behind the scenes, stating: "Even though I am stepping back from prophecy, I will still be in the background to pray, study and grow." This measured approach has been noted by observers as a responsible response to the situation.
Mixed Reactions from Social Media
The announcement generated varied responses across social media platforms. While some users criticized the prophet and labeled him a false prophet, others commended his willingness to take responsibility for his failed prediction. One social media user wrote: "Not everyone owns up when they get it wrong," urging the public to extend forgiveness.
Meanwhile, other prophets who had correctly predicted Dr Bawumia's victory celebrated their accurate forecasts. Prophet Emmanuel Worlasi of Conquerors Chapel International shared a video of himself and his family celebrating with cake and champagne labeled "prophecy fulfilled," though this display also attracted criticism from some quarters.
Background and Ministry Profile
Prophet Bernard ElBernard Nelson-Eshun is known not only for his prophetic ministry but also for his philanthropic activities. Beyond founding SpiritLife Revival Ministries, he describes himself as an author, forex trader, and cryptopreneur. His charitable work includes scholarship schemes for students and mentorship programs for young entrepreneurs.
In 2024, he gained attention for supporting veteran gospel musician Edward Boateng with a new car and scholarships for his children after a video highlighting the singer's financial struggles went viral. Previously, some of his prophecies, including his prediction that John Mahama would win the 2024 presidential election, were viewed as accurate.
Broader Context of Prophetic Accountability
This incident occurs within a broader context of increasing scrutiny of prophetic declarations in Ghana. The Ghana Police Service has repeatedly cautioned religious leaders, especially ahead of election periods, to avoid prophecies that could cause fear or panic. Since 2021, preachers have been urged to exercise restraint, with the presidency encouraging the submission of prophecies with national security implications for vetting.
Prophet ElBernard's decision to step back is now being viewed by many observers as a significant moment in ongoing debates about prophecy, accountability, and politics in Ghana. It raises important questions about the responsibility of religious leaders when making public predictions, particularly those with political implications that can influence public sentiment and expectations.
The situation also highlights the complex relationship between religious prophecy and political processes in West Africa, where spiritual leaders often wield significant influence over their followers' political perspectives and voting behavior.
