"This is Not a Joke": Nigerian Pastor Apologises for Rapture Scare, South Africans React With Anger

• A Nigerian pastor apologised on TikTok for sparking panic with his rapture prediction, but his words did not convince South Africans
• A South African preacher added fuel to the fire with bold claims that Jesus would return on specific dates in September 2025
• A heated online debate followed, with many saying apologies were not enough to undo the fear caused by repeated rapture predictions
• Briefly News reached out to Pastor Kaelan Ramduth, who reflected on the fallout of failed rapture predictions and their impact on faith

South Africans reacted strongly after a Nigerian pastor apologised for his rapture prediction, saying the apology did little to ease their frustration.

On 22 September 2025, Nigerian pastor and TikTok user @kingsalemigwe777 posted a video apologising for his earlier claims about the rapture. He explained that he had been sharing what he believed to be prophetic insights, but admitted that his warnings had caused fear. In the clip, which quickly garnered more than 600 likes and numerous comments within hours, he also shared a few Bible scriptures to justify his words. Many South Africans in the comment section expressed their frustration, saying they were not impressed by the apology.

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The pastor’s apology came after weeks of rumours and declarations from different preachers about the return of Jesus Christ. These claims had already created a wave of confusion and panic online, leaving many unsure of what to believe. His words reignited the debate around how such messages are delivered and whether they serve as warnings or simply fear-mongering. For some viewers, the apology was not enough to undo the anxiety caused by the earlier rapture talk.

Global prophecies fuelled debate on rapture predictions

Adding to the frenzy, South African preacher Mhlakela went viral with his prophecy on YouTube’s Cettwinz TV channel, where he boldly declared that Jesus would return on 23 and 24 September 2025. He linked his claims to the Book of Revelation, describing visions of Jesus seated on His throne and announcing His imminent return. Mhlakela also mentioned that the Feast of Trumpets would herald the event, sparking widespread debate among Christians.

With both pastors’ statements in circulation, the conversation about faith, prophecy, and fear only grew louder. While some believed these messages were warnings to prepare spiritually, others saw them as unnecessary scares. The apology from @kingsalemigwe777 did little to calm the online community, leaving the issue of rapture prophecies as controversial as ever.

Ramduth spoke to Briefly News and stressed that such moments can break trust, not only among believers but also with those who are curious about Christianity. He said:

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“Scripture is clear: no one knows the day or the hour of Christ’s return. So when predictions like this fail, they create doubt and make the faith appear unreliable. True believers remain anchored in God’s Word, but for those still searching, it can become a stumbling block. That’s why it’s so important that the message of Christ is not distorted by fear or false claims.”

Ramduth emphasised that pastors and faith leaders have a responsibility to ensure their teachings remain true to scripture. He explained that personal ideas or feelings should never be elevated above God’s Word. He said:

“If it doesn’t come from scripture, it doesn’t come from God. Human feelings and ideas can be misleading, so leaders should avoid forcing their own convictions onto their congregations. Their role is to faithfully teach what God has revealed in His Word and guide people with humility and truth. That’s how trust is built and protected.”

He also highlighted the importance of accountability when mistakes are made, stressing that openness helps restore peace and trust. At the same time, he encouraged believers to take responsibility for their own understanding of scripture. He said:

“When mistakes are made, they should be corrected openly so peace and trust can be restored. At the same time, believers should be encouraged to study the Bible for themselves, so they aren’t easily misled. Ultimately, reassurance comes when people know God’s truth for themselves. Even when human leaders falter, God’s Word remains the unshakable foundation of peace and hope.”

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Mzansi reacted to the video

Kathrynolushola asked:

"Where is Prophet Joshua's channel or account? Where is he streaming from?"

Cyndy wrote:

"Y'all stop with this time and date thing. We have like 24 different time zones in the whole world, so if the rapture is to happen, then it means it should happen at the same time worldwide. So when you say 23rd or 24th, what of the countries ahead and behind on time? That's why the scripture states that no one knows the time, nor the date. Even Jesus Himself has no idea."

Oscar_chapman_ commented:

"Propagating mass hysteria should have real consequences."

Wathum Innocent said:

"Bro, we listen but don't judge. The Bible is clear to us all. The dates, time, etc., aren't for us. It's a sign of weakness."

Resistance Moyo wrote:

"Yes, he is coming back, I believe, but will you all stop with the dates. We don't know when the Lord is coming back."

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Sandruteaurum2 quoted:

"Matthew 24:36: ‘But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.’"

SirGent Koros said:

"You were very clear on your prophecy that the 23rd would happen. We heard you clearly. Even Jesus said He doesn't know the day or the hour, so how did you lock the date? Shida yenyu ni kutuona kama matako zenyu."

Pst. Fred Owili wrote:

"You're beginning to mix and confuse yourself. You believed him, and that's why you amplified his erroneous prophecy. Brother, my advice is to stay away from this topic, get back to prayer and seek God's guidance. We don't need your apologies."

Check out the TikTok video below:

3 other Briefly News stories about pastors

• Two South African pastors shared predictions that Jesus Christ would return to the Earth on 23 or 24 September.
• MacG, on his Podcast and Chill YouTube channel, discussed the controversy of fake pastors with actress Dawn Thandeka King.
• Televangelist pastor Tim Omotoso was arrested on 10 May 2025 after the courts acquitted him of various charges.

Source: Briefly News