Prominent Nigerian human rights lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju, has strongly criticized Port Harcourt-based clergyman, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, following the pastor’s controversial threat to arrest bloggers and online critics.
This backlash comes in response to a viral video in which the founder of Salvation Ministries issued a stern warning to individuals who post “negative” or “twisted” content about him or his sermons. In the footage, Pastor Ibiyeomie warned detractors to desist or risk severe consequences.
“Don’t carry my news. I don’t want your news. You won’t make me popular… I will arrest you, I will lock you up. I don’t care. No man of God will pray for you and succeed,” the pastor declared.
The statement triggered widespread criticism online, with many accusing Ibiyeomie of behaving in a manner inconsistent with the teachings of Christianity. Among the most vocal critics was Deji Adeyanju, who is also the legal representative of social media personality, Verydarkman.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Adeyanju expressed his dismay:
“I’m so disappointed in Papa David Ibiyeomie warning and threatening Nigerians not to talk 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? People criticized Jesus and He did not lock them up.”
The activist went on to accuse the cleric of using intimidation tactics to suppress freedom of expression and avoid public scrutiny.
“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,” he added.
Adeyanju’s remarks have reignited broader debates on social media about the accountability of religious leaders and the misuse of law enforcement by those in positions of power. Many users echoed his sentiments, warning against the growing trend of religious figures leveraging state institutions to silence dissent.
