Accra: They came bearing the Word of God, but some also bore fraud, fake documents, and guns. Over the past decade, a growing list of high-profile men and women of God have traded pulpits for police stations, reminding the country that anointing oils cannot protect against arrest warrants.
According to Ghana Web, several renowned Ghanaian preachers have found themselves on the wrong side of the law. Bishop Daniel Obinim, also known as Angel Obinim and the Founder of the International God's Way Church, has been a controversial figure in Ghanaian religious news. His legal woes began in August 2016 when a viral video showed him publicly flogging two young members of his church for alleged fornication, which led to an unwanted pregnancy. Arrested and fined, Obinim faced further legal challenges in 2020 when he was charged with the publication of false news and document forgery. An Accra Magistrate Court granted him bail with significant conditions.
Rev Isaac Owusu Bempah, General Overseer of Glorious Word Power Ministries International, faced arrest in September 2021 alongside six others. They were charged with issuing threats, brandishing weapons, and alleged assault on police officers. The incident stemmed from a feud with Evangelist Patricia Oduro Koranteng, formerly Nana Agradaa. Despite being granted bail, Bempah was re-arrested in November 2021 as prosecutors prepared new charges, including threats of death.
Patricia Asiedu Asiamah, popularly known as Nana Agradaa, encountered legal troubles in October 2022 due to a televised money-doubling scheme that defrauded followers. In 2025, she was convicted of fraud and sentenced to 15 years in prison. Following an appeal, her sentence was reduced to 12 months, and she was released after serving eight months.
Pastor Love, also known as Emmanuel Akwasi Boakye, a gospel musician-turned-pastor, was arrested in 2017 after failing to deliver a vehicle as promised to a US-based Ghanaian. His legal battle culminated in a 48-month prison sentence in October 2024.
Prophet Jedidiah Henry Kore, known as Fire Oja, faced arrest in 2026 by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service. He was charged with defamation and making threats against veteran musician Mzbel. The arrest followed a complaint about a viral social media video in which Fire Oja made claims about Mzbel's health and integrity.
These incidents highlight a growing trend, reminding Ghanaians that while the anointing may be real, so are the handcuffs.