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

Source: TikTok
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.

Read also
"Most painful part": SA reacts to couple’s heated street confrontation drawing attention in Mzansi
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.

Read also
'Jesus' lookalike reacts to viral 23 September 2025 rapture talks: "How would anyone know?"
PAY ATTENTION: Briefly News is now on YouTube! Check out our interviews on Briefly TV Life now!
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.

Source: TikTok
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:

Read also
"This kid is playing with death": Little boy’s close encounter with snake sparks outrage in Mzansi
"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."
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