A video of Pastor David Ibiyeomie warning that he would arrest and imprison anyone who misquotes or criticizes him has sparked a mix of reactions across the country. But while many were quick to condemn his remarks, activist Deji Adeyanju used the moment to raise a more thoughtful concern.
Adeyanju’s statement wasn’t a question of faith or doctrine. It was a call for spiritual leaders to lead by example, especially in respecting the rights and freedoms that are essential in any democracy.
Instead of focusing on Pastor Ibiyeomie’s anger, Adeyanju highlighted a deeper issue: the growing trend of powerful figures, both religious and political, reacting harshly to public criticism. He argued that true leadership is not about control or fear, but about patience, understanding, and the ability to rise above personal attacks.
“We must remember,” Adeyanju said, “that even pastors are public figures. And once you step onto that stage, people will talk — sometimes fairly, sometimes not. But using threats or force to silence them goes against everything leadership should stand for.”
Adeyanju further noted that in countries like the United States, public figures regularly criticize and challenge one another. Elon Musk and Donald Trump, for example, have exchanged sharp words without resorting to police action. Adeyanju believes Nigeria can learn from this — not by copying personalities, but by embracing the principle of free speech.
“When pastors become unbelievers,” Adeyanju said — not in God, but in the values that reflect Him. The time has come for every leader to believe again. Not just in their message, but in the people they are called to serve.
