Founder of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, has strongly criticised the proposed restriction on preaching in commercial buses, alleging that it targets Christians and warning against what he described as attempts to undermine religious freedom.
Pastor David Ibiyeomie has condemned the proposed restriction on preaching in commercial vehicles, arguing that Christians should enjoy the same freedom to publicly practise and share their faith as adherents of other religions.
Speaking during a church service, the Port Harcourt-based cleric questioned the rationale behind the proposal, saying the government should instead focus on pressing national issues such as insecurity, poverty and economic hardship.
‘They Want to Turn Nigeria Into an Islamic Nation’
Reacting to the proposal, Ibiyeomie alleged that the move was aimed at limiting Christian evangelism.
According to him, Christians cannot be prevented from preaching the Gospel while other religious groups continue to openly practise their faith.
He warned that any attempt to suppress Christian evangelism would be resisted, insisting that freedom of religion is guaranteed under Nigeria’s Constitution.
Criticises Silence of Some Church Leaders
The cleric also criticised some Christian leaders whom he accused of remaining silent on national issues.
He suggested that some pastors had become too close to political leaders and were therefore unwilling to speak out on policies affecting Christians.
Debate Continues Over Proposed Law
The comments come amid nationwide reactions to provisions in the proposed Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Amendment Bill, which would prohibit hawking, trading and preaching inside commercial vehicles if eventually enacted into law.
While some Christian organisations have opposed the proposal as an infringement on constitutional rights, others have argued that restrictions could improve passenger safety by reducing distractions for drivers.