Lawyer and human rights activist, Deji Adeyanju, has publicly criticized Pastor David Ibiyeomie, founder of Salvation Ministries, for threatening to arrest and detain individuals who publish negative reports about him.

BenriNews reports that the cleric was captured in a trending video accusing unnamed bloggers of deliberately misrepresenting his messages. He also alleged that some members of his congregation were collaborating with these bloggers.

In the video, Pastor Ibiyeomie issued stern warnings to those he believes are working against him, vowing to take decisive action against anyone who "crosses the line." He emphasized that he would not be swayed by appeals for mercy.

Pastor's Stern Warning

"My type when I go after people, they will now send people to come and beg. So I'm warning you for the last time. Next time, there will be nothing like a warning if you dare it," Ibiyeomie stated in the video.

The pastor continued with direct threats: "I will arrest you, I will lock you up. I don't care. No man of God will pray for you and succeed. Don't carry my news. I don't want your news. You won't make me popular. Already, I am talking to the world. Good or bad, don't carry my news."

Ibiyeomie also accused some church members of being planted to twist his messages: "They plant you inside the church, and instead of you listening to the message and getting blessed, you now pick one thing and twist, say what I didn't say."

Activist's Response

Responding to the pastor's comments on Tuesday via his official X handle, Adeyanju expressed disappointment in Ibiyeomie's stance, questioning the cleric's authority to silence criticism.

"I'm so disappointed in Papa David Ibiyeomie warning and threatening Nigerians not to talk (about) or criticize him or his church else he will lock them up. Who are you sir that people can't talk about your church or criticize you?" Adeyanju wrote.

The lawyer drew a comparison to Jesus Christ, noting: "People criticized Jesus and He did not lock them up. And boasting about using police to lock people up, a pastor ooo! These pastors are acting like unbelievers and de-marketing Christianity. They are the reason many people are no longer going to church."

This public exchange highlights ongoing tensions between religious leaders and critics in Nigeria, raising questions about freedom of speech and the accountability of religious figures in the public sphere.