Deji Adeyanju Criticizes Pastor Ibiyeomie Over Threats to Critics

Human rights advocate and legal practitioner, Deji Adeyanju, has harshly criticized Pastor David Ibiyeomie, the General Overseer of Salvation Ministries, for issuing threats to detain individuals who post unfavorable comments or reports about him.

According to a report from LMSINT MEDIA, the popular cleric was seen in a now-viral video accusing anonymous bloggers of intentionally misrepresenting his sermons. He also alleged that some church attendees were aiding these bloggers in spreading misinformation.

In the footage, Pastor Ibiyeomie emphasized his readiness to act decisively against anyone he believes is attempting to undermine him. He maintained that no amount of pleading would dissuade him once the line is crossed.

“People often plead with me after I confront them. This is your final warning. There won’t be another. If you try it again, there will be no room for leniency,” he stated.

He continued by targeting a particular individual, saying:

“Young man, I know you and your parents. They won’t even attempt to beg on your behalf. I’ll ensure you’re dealt with accordingly.”

He then commented on the duality of public opinion:

“People are always divided—some support me, others don’t. But I always have a majority behind me.”

He warned those who have consistently criticized him:

“If I respond aggressively, people say a man of God shouldn’t arrest critics or curse them. But if you provoke me, I will involve the police. I don’t care what anyone says. No spiritual intervention will work for you if you meddle in my affairs.”

The pastor went on to prohibit coverage of his church by bloggers:

“Stop reporting anything about me. Your coverage doesn’t add to my popularity—I’m already reaching the world. Whether good or bad, I don’t want your stories. Don’t cover our messages.”

He alleged that certain individuals were embedded within the congregation to distort his teachings:

“You’re inside the church, not to learn or receive blessings, but to misquote and spread falsehoods. You twist my words and mislead the public.”

Concluding with a direct threat, he declared:

“My kind of gospel? If you slap me, I’ll strike back first. I am not your conventional pastor. Young man, I will confront you.”

In response to this outburst, Deji Adeyanju, through his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, expressed strong disappointment. He accused the clergyman of portraying Christianity in a negative light.

“I’m truly disheartened by Papa David Ibiyeomie’s threats toward Nigerians who criticize him or his church. Why should your church be immune to scrutiny? Even Jesus Christ was criticized, yet He never threatened to imprison anyone,” Adeyanju remarked.

He further stated:

“Bragging about using the police to silence critics is unbecoming of a pastor. These actions make many question the authenticity of today’s church leaders. They are acting in ways that alienate believers and are turning people away from the Christian faith.”