CAN Urges Sanctions on Fake Preachers After Rapture Prediction Fails

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called for sanctions against false preachers following the failed rapture prophecy by South African pastor Joshua Mhlakela, which left many of his followers stranded, heartbroken, and financially ruined.

Mhlakela, who claimed that Jesus appeared to him in a vision, predicted that the rapture would take place between September 23 and 24 during the Jewish Feast of Trumpets. In a widely circulated interview, he insisted that he was “a billion per cent sure” of his prophecy and told believers to prepare for the end of the world. His words quickly spread on social media, especially TikTok, where the hashtag #RaptureTok gained traction as young people shared videos of their preparations. Some sold off their belongings, others resigned from jobs, and a few gave away prized possessions, believing they would no longer need them.

On the predicted days, hundreds reportedly gathered in forests, waiting for what they thought would be their ascension. Mhlakela himself went live online, confidently announcing that the event was imminent. But as the hours passed without incident, confusion and despair set in. Videos later surfaced of disappointed followers expressing anger and regret. One TikTok user said she felt “foolish and lost” after quitting her job and giving away her things. Another lamented selling his car and donating personal treasures, only to wake up and find “everyone still here.”

Mhlakela attempted to defend himself, suggesting the rapture could still happen within the two-day window, but his assurances failed to calm his devastated followers. The fallout has drawn sharp criticism from religious leaders. Pastor Chris Okotie dismissed the prophecy as “the prideful ejaculations of a spiritual charlatan,” stressing that it had no biblical foundation. Lagos CAN Chairman, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, described Mhlakela as a fake pastor, warning that the Bible clearly teaches that no one knows the day or hour of the Lord’s return.

CAN’s National Director of National Issues and Social Welfare, Abimbola Ayuba, went further, demanding sanctions against preachers who mislead the public. “These types of people are those that the government should penalise for misguiding and misinforming the people. The pastor should be raptured into detention,” Ayuba said, adding that freedom of religion must have limits when it puts vulnerable people at risk.

The failed prophecy has sparked wider debate about the misuse of faith for personal influence and the dangers of social media amplifying unverified claims. While some have vowed never to trust such predictions again, others remain shaken and uncertain about how to rebuild their lives after giving up so much in anticipation of an event that never came.