David Ibiyeomie, founder of Salvation Ministries, has alleged that there is a deliberate agenda to turn Nigeria into an Islamic state, insisting that such efforts would ultimately fail.
In a video that has gone viral on social media, the Port Harcourt-based cleric made the remarks while preaching on what he described as the signs of the “perilous times” foretold in the Bible.
Referencing 2 Timothy 3:1, Ibiyeomie said the country was witnessing increasing wickedness, insecurity and moral decline.
“We are living in the last days. The last days, Paul called the perilous times,” he said.
“Times when people, because of money, can do anything. Where wickedness will increase. It is already here.”
The cleric cited the abduction of children and growing insecurity as examples of the challenges confronting the country.
“Where you see they carry children without having conscience,” he said.
Ibiyeomie further alleged that insecurity in the country was part of a broader attempt to Islamise Nigeria.
“Where they think they can turn Nigeria into an Islamic nation, it can never happen,” he said.
“Now hear me, as a prophet, it will never happen. The agenda is to make Nigeria an Islamic nation.”
The preacher argued that Nigeria’s religious diversity would make such a project impossible.
“Are you telling me that an Igbo man will be a Muslim? Or you’ll force somebody to be a Muslim?” he asked.
“That is the agenda. But hear me, I’m a man of God. It can never happen.”
Ibiyeomie also questioned the government’s security partnerships with foreign countries, specifically Turkey.
“How can you bring Turkish people to come and protect Nigeria?” he said.
“Turkey that was a Christian nation that turned Islamic. We are not stupid. We know it.”
The cleric maintained that Nigeria would never become an Islamic state, regardless of any alleged attempts to impose a particular religion on the country.
“Nigeria will never be an Islamic nation. Not in my lifetime, even after my lifetime,” he said.
“Everybody should worship their God, but don’t impose your religion on us. We have never imposed our own on you.”
He urged social media users and news platforms to accurately report his comments.
“Social media, if you like, carry it, but don’t misquote me,” he said.
“Nigeria will never be an Islamic nation. That’s what I said.”
