Prominent Nigerian televangelist and founder of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, has strongly criticized a proposed bill seeking to regulate public preaching, warning that any attempt to restrict Christian evangelism could deepen religious tensions and threaten national stability.
Speaking during a Sunday service in the southern city of Port Harcourt, Ibiyeomie condemned what has been described as a controversial traffic offence and anti-preaching bill, arguing that lawmakers are focusing on limiting religious activities instead of addressing Nigeria’s worsening economic hardship, insecurity, and widespread poverty.
The outspoken cleric maintained that Christians should be allowed to freely preach in public spaces, including commercial buses, just as members of other religious groups openly practice their faith.
“If Nigerians truly want peace, Christians should be allowed to practice their faith without intimidation, just as Muslims are allowed to practice theirs,” he told worshippers.
Ibiyeomie warned that banning public preaching would amount to an attack on religious freedom and could create unnecessary divisions across the country. He argued that preventing Christians from sharing their message publicly would set a dangerous precedent that could eventually extend to other forms of religious expression.
The pastor also urged Christians to become more involved in politics and governance, saying greater participation in public affairs would help protect their constitutional rights and ensure balanced representation in national decision-making.
Beyond the proposed legislation, Ibiyeomie criticized political leaders for failing to confront what he described as Nigeria’s more pressing challenges. He pointed to rising hunger, economic hardship, insecurity, and attacks on Nigerians abroad as issues deserving greater legislative attention.
According to him, lawmakers should prioritize policies that improve citizens’ welfare instead of introducing measures capable of fueling religious controversy.
The cleric further expressed concern over what he described as growing silence among religious leaders on national issues, insisting that faith leaders have a responsibility to speak out whenever the rights of citizens or the country’s democratic values are threatened.
His comments come amid growing public debate over the proposed legislation, which has sparked reactions from religious groups, legal experts, and civil society organizations concerned about the balance between public order and constitutionally guaranteed freedom of religion.As discussions continue, the proposal is expected to remain one of Nigeria’s most closely watched religious and political debates, with many observers calling for broader consultations before any legislation affecting religious expression is adopted.
