The Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) has publicly declared support for Pastor David Ibiyeomie of Salvation Ministries International following his recent warning against content creators who distort his sermons for online engagement.
Pastor Ibiyeomie had issued a stern warning that such acts of sermon manipulation would no longer be tolerated, promising consequences for those who continue the practice.
Youth Forum Condemns Sermon Manipulation
In a statement released on Tuesday, CCYF Convener James Paul Adama condemned what the group described as "unscrupulous practices" by bloggers and content creators who twist messages from respected religious leaders for personal gain.
"Our attention has been drawn to the persistent twisting of Pastor Ibiyeomie's sermons to fit misleading online narratives," the statement read. "Let it be known that these slanderous attacks are rooted in falsehood. Our Christian leaders are men and women of integrity who have dedicated their lives to serving God and humanity."
The Forum characterized the manipulation of sermons as a "dangerous trend" motivated by greed and the monetization of misinformation. They called on the Federal Government to take urgent steps to regulate such activities in Nigeria's digital space.
Call for Public Discernment
"These bloggers and so-called influencers have turned the sacred into spectacle. Their shameless tactics not only misrepresent the truth but sow seeds of division within the body of Christ," Adama further stated.
The CCYF urged the public to exercise discernment regarding online content and to avoid platforms that profit from defamation and falsehood. According to the group, it is time for faith-based communities and civil society organizations to unite in protecting spiritual institutions from unwarranted attacks.
This development highlights growing concerns within Nigeria's religious community about the ethical implications of digital content creation and the responsibilities of online influencers when engaging with religious material.
