Actor Patrick Diabuah questions ‘God told me’ claims as he reflects on ‘The Ten’ role

Actor Patrick Diabuah cautioned against mistaking personal ambition for divine instruction, saying people should learn to distinguish between their desires and what they believe God has told them to do.

Diabuah, who plays Pastor Matthew in Africa Magic’s psychological thriller series, The Ten, advised while discussing the decisions that led to a church outreach trip in the series ending in the abduction of 10 members of the congregation.

When asked what he would change if given another chance, the actor identified the trip, linking the decision to Pastor Matthew’s loss of discernment.

He likened the situation to people who embark on expensive projects beyond their financial capacity because they believe God has assured them of success.

“I remember once telling somebody that it’s not the Lord that is showing you; it’s in your head. You are just forcing the Lord into it,” he said.

The actor explained that questioning such convictions doesn’t necessarily mean losing faith, noting that people shouldn’t assume every thought that crosses their minds is a message from God.

“A lot of people will see it as, ‘Oh, Pastor no longer believes in God,’ but no,” he said. “God does not have to talk to man the way we are talking like this. Sometimes it can just be those things in your mind that come to mind.”

Diabuah, with more than two decades of theatre experience, said the role offered a chance to explore the complexities of a religious leader whose personal flaws conflict with his spiritual calling.

His theatre credits include Fela and the Kalakuta Queens, Saro: The Musical and Wole Soyinka’s The Trials of Brother Jero.

Describing Pastor Matthew as a man who genuinely loves God but struggles with pride and guilt, the actor said religious leaders should be allowed to make mistakes, provided they acknowledge their shortcomings and are willing to change course.

The character’s dilemma adds to the tension in The Ten, a psychological thriller by filmmaker Lota Chukwu. The psychological thriller follows survivors of a kidnapping who reunite for a vigil led by Pastor Matthew, only for one of them to be murdered.

With a local festival leaving everyone trapped inside the church, the group finds itself in another life-threatening situation, this time with a killer among them.

The Ten airs on Thursdays and Fridays at 8:30 p.m. on Africa Magic Showcase and is also available to stream on DStv Stream.