The Ghana Police Service has confirmed the arrest of a self-styled prophet, Evans Eshun, popularly known as Ebo Noah, following controversial end-of-world prophecies that stirred anxiety and intense public debate across the country.
The police disclosed the development in a statement issued on Wednesday, noting that Eshun was apprehended by the Inspector-General of Police’s Special Cyber Vetting Team as part of ongoing efforts to monitor cyber-related activities linked to end-of-year religious programmes, particularly the popular 31st night services.
According to the police, the arrest followed widespread online reports and public interest generated by Eshun’s earlier predictions, which security agencies had cautioned could fuel fear, panic or threaten public order.
In the statement, the Police Service explained that the action was consistent with standing advisories warning individuals and groups against making public declarations or prophecies capable of disrupting public peace, especially during sensitive festive periods.
While confirming the arrest, the police said specific allegations and the precise nature of the conduct under investigation were yet to be made public, stressing that inquiries were still ongoing.
Security authorities reiterated that predictions or pronouncements likely to incite panic may be examined under existing laws relating to public order, communications and cyber-related offences.
Police sources said Eshun remains in custody to assist investigators. No formal charges have been announced, and details regarding court proceedings or bail conditions are yet to be disclosed. The police also did not confirm whether other persons are being investigated in connection with the matter.
The Police Service urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation, assuring that due process would be followed and emphasising that the suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
Eshun gained prominence after constructing a large wooden structure he described as the “Ebo Noah Ark,” which he claimed was built following divine instruction. He had warned that a catastrophic flood would begin on December 25, a prophecy that attracted massive media attention and visitors from within and outside Ghana.
He initially claimed to have received a revelation predicting years of destructive rainfall that would wipe out the world, prompting public calls for repentance and heated debate. However, after the predicted date passed without incident, Eshun released a video stating that the disaster had been averted following prayers, fasting and consultations with other religious leaders.
According to him, a subsequent revelation indicated that more people sought refuge in the ark than it could accommodate, leading to what he described as divine approval to extend the time for building additional arks.
The police said further updates would be provided as investigations continue.
