When We Were Talking, Did You Talk?” — Pastor Ibiyeomie Fires Back At Critics Over Insecurity Comments

Speaking during a church sermon, Ibiyeomie said many Nigerians fail to acknowledge the efforts and interventions of religious leaders in the past.

He questioned why individuals who were vocal during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan are now silent, yet still accuse men of God of not speaking out.

According to him, criticism of the clergy ignores the fact that they have consistently raised concerns over national issues over the years.

“Now nobody is talking again, all those people that use to riot during are not rioting again, Nigeria is a funny country. They talked during Jonathan, why they no talk again. They say men of God are not talking about the country’s insecurity, the ones that talked during Jonathan’s term, why’re they not talking now? The time we talked, una talk?” he said.

He added that religious leaders have continued to speak out on national matters, even if their voices are often overlooked.

Meanwhile, the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has dismissed reports suggesting that its General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has taken a political position or endorsed any candidate or party.

In a statement released on its official public relations X handle, the church said Adeboye has consistently encouraged members to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participate in elections according to their conscience.

The RCCG stressed that its members belong to different political affiliations and are free to exercise their democratic rights responsibly.

It also denied claims that Pastor Adeboye cancelled a planned protest, clarifying that he only conveyed adjustments from the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) regarding a prayer programme.

According to the church, the event was reorganised to include a central gathering and a rally around the venue.

The statement further rejected suggestions that Adeboye has been silent on national issues, insisting he has consistently spoken on insecurity, corruption, governance, hardship, elections, and leadership.

It added that his approach is often through prayer, moral teaching, and counsel rather than partisan engagement.

The RCCG urged the public to avoid misinformation and rely only on official communication channels for accurate updates.

It also called on media practitioners and content creators to verify information before publishing, stressing the importance of accuracy and responsible reporting.