In a bold response to a recent viral video, Nigerian lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju has criticized Pastor David Ibiyeomie of Salvation Ministries after the clergyman threatened to arrest and detain bloggers who report negatively about him.

The controversy began when Ibiyeomie, in a video circulating online, accused some bloggers of deliberately twisting his sermons for their own agendas. The pastor warned that he would no longer tolerate misrepresentation and vowed to take harsh action against anyone who “crosses the line.”

In his strong warning, Ibiyeomie said, “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... I will arrest you, I will lock you up. I don’t care.”

He further insisted that no man of God would prosper by praying for those who oppose him, urging his congregation and critics alike to stop carrying news about his church that might incite others.

💬 Opinion: When Faith Meets Free Speech — A Delicate Balance

While pastors are entitled to protect their reputations, threats of arrest and intimidation of journalists and bloggers raise critical questions about freedom of speech and press freedom in Nigeria.

Deji Adeyanju’s response highlights this tension well. He reminded the public that even Jesus Christ faced criticism without resorting to silencing his critics by force. Adeyanju’s argument echoes a broader concern: in a democratic society, disagreement and critique are not crimes — they are vital to growth and accountability.

🔍 The Bigger Picture

In an era where social media amplifies every voice, the role of bloggers and citizen journalists cannot be underestimated. While some may indeed twist facts for personal gain, the solution lies in dialogue, transparency, and, importantly, the rule of law — not threats and intimidation.

By threatening legal action and arrests, Ibiyeomie risks alienating a portion of his congregation and the public, who see such moves as a suppression of truth rather than an act of righteous defense.

📢 Voices Calling for Balance

The incident has sparked discussions on social media, with many Nigerians urging religious leaders to embrace criticism as part of their public role, especially in this digital age.

It is a moment for faith leaders and society at large to reflect on how to balance respect for religious authority with the fundamental rights of free expression and press freedom.

🔖 Trending Hashtags

#FreeSpeechMatters #PressFreedomNigeria #DavidIbiyeomieControversy #DejiAdeyanjuSpeaks #FaithAndFreedom #NigerianChurchDebate

As the conversation unfolds, one thing is clear — the power of words can build or break bridges, and how we choose to respond to criticism shapes the legacy of leaders in all sectors of society.