In the world of social media, a single misinterpreted sentence can spark a national firestorm. Recently, a narrative began to circulate that Ghanaian gospel legend Esther Smith was “charged” £300,000 by Alpha Hour CEO Pastor Elvis Agyemang to pray against threats on her life.

However, as revealed in the recent Ekuonaba TV coverage and subsequent interviews, the reality of the situation is far more complex—and involves a dangerous criminal plot rather than a “fee” for spiritual services.

The Source of the Misinformation

The controversy stemmed from a viral misinterpretation of a recent interview. While headlines claimed a pastor demanded the money, the truth is that the demand came from a much darker source.

• The Real Threat: Esther Smith revealed that a Nigerian individual (or group) sent her threatening messages ahead of her return to Ghana for the Alpha Hour Convocation.
• The Ransom: It was the threatener, not a pastor, who demanded a massive sum—roughly €300,000—to “abandon” the plot to harm her.
• Management Intervention: Her team initially kept the full details from her to ensure she remained focused on her ministry performance at the Accra Sports Stadium.

The Role of Alpha Hour and Pastor Elvis

Contrary to the rumors of exploitation, the relationship between Esther Smith and the Alpha Hour team was one of protection and support.

• Security Detail: Upon learning of the threats, official security and personnel from the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) were alerted to provide protection during her appearances.
• Spiritual Support: While Pastor Elvis and the Alpha Hour community did pray for her, it was part of their standard ministry and the broader “Alpha Hour Convocation” event that saw thousands gather for worship.
• Legal Action: Smith confirmed that she has involved lawyers to handle the misinformation and the actual criminal threats.

The Danger of Information Warfare

This incident highlights how “online presence” can be a double-edged sword. Esther Smith expressed her frustration with those who “change the story and change the narrative” to suit clickbait headlines.

The video warns that “silence is interpreted as weakness,” and both the musician and the ministry have taken steps to ensure the “misinterpretation of communication” is corrected for the public.

Sticking to the Facts

The assassination of a narrative is often as swift as it is unfair. In this case, the “cautious and intentional” truth is that Esther Smith was a victim of an extortion attempt by criminals, and her church community stood by her in defense.

How do you think public figures should handle viral misinformation? Should more people be held legally accountable for “twisting the narrative”? Let us know in the comments below!