In a powerful response to Nigeria's escalating security challenges, Pastor David Ibiyeomie of Salvation Ministries has issued a stern warning to criminal elements targeting his congregation members.
Divine Protection Declared Amid Security Crisis
The prominent cleric delivered his message during a recent church service, addressing the growing fears among Nigerians about kidnapping and violent crimes affecting various regions. Pastor Ibiyeomie assured his congregation of God's protection as concerns over personal safety continue to mount nationwide.
A video of the sermon was shared through his official Instagram account @david_ibiyeomie, where the pastor made specific declarations about the fate awaiting anyone who dares to harm Salvation Ministries members or their families.
Specific Warnings to Criminal Elements
The pastor's message contained direct warnings to potential kidnappers and those planning evil against church members. He declared that any kidnapper who had previously targeted his members would die within seven days, while those attempting such actions between the day of the sermon and the following Sunday would face immediate divine judgment.
"Any kidnapper who dared you before dies in seven days. Any kidnapper that dares your life between today and Sunday I declare them dead," Ibiyeomie stated emphatically during the service.
He extended the warning to include anyone planning the downfall of church members, asserting that such individuals would themselves fall. The pastor encouraged his congregation to actively declare their protection in Jesus' name, emphasizing the power of spoken declarations in spiritual warfare.
Mixed Reactions from Social Media Users
The Instagram video quickly attracted significant attention, with Nigerians expressing diverse opinions in the comments section. While some supported the pastor's stance, others raised questions about the specificity of the prayers.
One user, Officialchinenye_1, commented: "His prayer is not you ppl's problem. He can only cover those he can cover with prayer. Hold your government accountable to security issues. Pastors are not the cause of insecurity."
Another comment from Peaceyinny questioned: "So other church denominations lives doesn't matter?" reflecting concerns about the exclusive nature of the protection declaration.
Some users expressed skepticism about the practical effectiveness of such declarations. Just_will.i.ams challenged: "Papa drop all your securities and start to dey waka alone then make we check that prayer well again if e go work."
Call for National Prayers Amid Security Challenges
Several commenters suggested that religious leaders should extend their prayers to cover all Nigerians affected by the security crisis rather than focusing exclusively on their own congregations.
Favyhenry1 noted: "I don't think it's time for ministering or praying for just your members, if it's prayers you can render now as a man of God please pray for the country at least, Christianity means Christ like, and praying for everyone in distress is what Christ will do."
The pastor concluded his address with a broader call for divine intervention, stating: "Enough is enough. May the judgment of God swiftly come upon every force of wickedness: kidnappers, assassins, hoodlums, ritualists, and all who perpetuate evil. Their evil shall not stand. God's judgment will prevail."
The incident highlights the growing concern among religious leaders and citizens alike as Nigeria continues to grapple with significant security challenges affecting daily life and religious activities across the nation.
