In recent days social media in Ghana has erupted with outrage over allegations made against the Ghana branch of Christ Embassy Youth Church (CEYC). Influencer Ama Burland has publicly claimed that during her time with the church she witnessed dubious practices including unverified miracles, seed‑sowing pressure on young members, and a near‑miraculous recovery that was later undermined when she observed contradictions.
Among the allegations is the claim that a man on crutches was prayed for, appeared to drop the crutches, only to be seen the next day still using them. Ama says this, alongside the sudden elevation of new converts to leadership roles without training, seeded serious mistrust among members.
The reactions from Ghanaians have been fierce. Many are calling for the church — and its parent organisation under Pastor Chris Oyakhilome — to be shut down or heavily regulated, arguing that when a religious institution is alleged to be involved in sexual harassment, extortion and manipulation of vulnerable followers, the state must step in.
On the other side, the church has yet to issue a public response to these latest claims. Critics say this silence only deepens concern about accountability and transparency in Ghana’s booming charismatic‑church space. Some theologians warn that the problem is not just about one church but about the broader culture of unchecked pastoral power in Ghana.
For Ghanaian society, this moment raises pressing questions: How should faith communities be regulated without infringing religious freedom? What protections exist for young or financially vulnerable members? And what role should the state play when serious allegations emerge?
As the debate intensifies, many in Ghana are watching whether regulators, lawmakers or church oversight bodies will act — and whether this episode will lead to meaningful reform or simply a shift in public relations.
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