Pastor David Ibiyeomie has urged Nigerians not to exchange their votes for money ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that the short-term benefits of vote-buying cannot compensate for years of poor governance.
Speaking during Sunday’s service, the clergyman said, “If any of you collect money to go and vote, and are saying it’s money I will chop? The money you get before is only for one week. What are the rest of the four years? Never sell your conscience for money.”
He advised citizens to focus on competence rather than political parties, stressing, “Don’t vote party, vote who can deliver.”
Ibiyeomie also called on Nigerians to stand against oppression and defend the truth, noting that the power of the masses should never be underestimated. According to him, “When masses say no, nobody stands.”
The pastor further challenged members of the judiciary to uphold integrity and leave behind a positive legacy, while criticizing religious leaders who publicly support politicians they know are incapable of delivering good governance.
“Don’t pray for a man who cannot deliver. Pray for somebody who has conscience,” he said.
Ibiyeomie maintained that he was not speaking as a politician, adding that voters who sell their votes only enjoy temporary gains while enduring the consequences of bad leadership for years.