A resurfaced sermon by David Ibiyeomie, founder of Salvation Ministries, has sparked widespread reactions online after the cleric claimed his prayers played a key role in Nyesom Wike becoming governor of Rivers State.
In the video circulating on social media, Ibiyeomie recounted events surrounding the legal battle that followed the 2015 governorship election in Rivers State. According to him, Wike contacted him in fear after court rulings threatened his victory.
“I called him, and he was shaking on phone. I said don’t fear, don’t panic, God will step in,” the pastor said while narrating the encounter to his congregation.
Ibiyeomie explained that he reassured the politician that the situation would eventually turn in his favour, even if early court decisions went against him.
He added that Wike later credited the final outcome to divine intervention. “He said ‘Papa this is God,’” the pastor said, noting that he was the only priest invited to the thanksgiving organised after the legal dispute ended.
The case was eventually settled by the Supreme Court of Nigeria on February 12, 2016, which overturned earlier rulings and affirmed Wike’s election victory based on legal evidence.
During the sermon, Ibiyeomie also claimed the politician once considered stepping away from another political contest due to pressure.
“He asked me ‘Papa do I go off?’ I said ‘don’t go off,’” the cleric said.
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He further said he made a personal financial vow during the period, describing it as part of a covenant he entered with God. “I gave millions on behalf of Wike and I didn’t tell him. I said Lord not for his sake but for my sake… I said for my sake step in,” he stated.
Since the clip resurfaced online, it has drawn mixed reactions from social media users, many of whom questioned the closeness between religious leaders and political figures.
One user, @brownspicies, wrote, “This are the people that brought calamities to Nigerians.. you and that your God are fraud.”
Another, @jodietheboy, reacted: “Dammmn! So all these Pastors are IN BED WITH politicians!”
A different user, @mblexxyn, questioned the claim, writing: “So your prayers changed the result for Wike or you gave money out to rig the election for Wike.”
Others reacted more humorously. @Teemetiko joked, “I hope Mr Obi has papa’s number,” referring to Peter Obi.
The resurfaced sermon continues to circulate widely online, adding to ongoing conversations about the influence of religious leaders in Nigeria’s political space.