David Ibiyeomie, presiding pastor of Salvation Ministries, has urged Nigerians not to sell their votes for money ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying voters should support candidates based on competence rather than political parties.
Speaking during a Sunday sermon, the cleric warned that the benefits of vote-buying are temporary, while the consequences could last for years.
“It’s time not to sell your conscience,” he said.
“If any of you collect money to go and vote and say, ‘na money I go chop’, the money will only last for a short time.”
“It will last you one day, one week, but the government that emerges will stay for four years.”
“Never sell your conscience for money.”
The Port Harcourt-based pastor urged Nigerians to vote for candidates they believe can deliver good governance.
“Don’t vote party, vote who can deliver,” he said.
He also called on citizens to resist oppression and demand accountability from political leaders.
“Let Nigerians stand up for the first time and react against whoever wants to oppress them,” he said.
“The day the masses say no, nobody can stand it.”
The cleric cited historical examples of popular uprisings, arguing that citizens have the power to influence political outcomes when united.
“This time, vote for somebody who can deliver,” he said.
“I’m not a politician and I will never be one, but if you vote because they gave you money, it will not help you.”
THE JUDICIARY
Ibiyeomie also criticised the judiciary, although he acknowledged that some judges remain committed to integrity.
“The judiciary has messed the system up. Please, some decent ones are still in the judiciary,” he said.
“For the first time, stand for the truth.”
He urged judges, public officials, religious leaders and citizens to act with integrity and consider the legacy they will leave behind.
“A judge should ask, ‘What will people remember me for?’” he said.
“That judge does not do that nonsense — that is the kind of testimony a judge should have.”
The cleric added that religious leaders should also avoid supporting politicians they believe are incapable of delivering good governance.
“Don’t play for a man who cannot deliver,” he said.
“Support somebody who has a conscience.”
