Pastor David Obiyeomie, founder of Salvation Ministries, has introduced strict behavioural guidelines for church services, sparking widespread debate across Nigerian social media platforms. In a viral video shared on X (formerly Twitter), the cleric emphasized the need for discipline and reverence during worship, explicitly banning chewing gum, drinking water inside the auditorium, and using mobile phones. His remarks, made during a recent service, have drawn both support and criticism from Nigerians, with many questioning the appropriateness of such rules in modern church settings.
The video, posted on May 12, 2026, features Pastor Obiyeomie delivering a stern message to worshippers. He stated, “Don’t chew gum when you’re in church, you’re not a goat. Don’t drink water in church. If you want to drink water, go outside. Don’t use phone at all in church. This is not a Pentecostal church, only Pentecostal churches allow water inside church.” He stressed that the church is a sacred space and should not be treated casually, warning that certain common behaviours during services are disrespectful and unacceptable.
His comments have ignited discussions online, with users divided on the matter. Some praised his call for order and spiritual focus, arguing that discipline in worship enhances reverence and concentration. Others, however, found the rules overly strict and out of touch with contemporary church culture. One user commented, “He made his point, but the delivery wasn’t right,” while another wrote, “Some of these rules are too extreme for modern church settings.”
The debate reflects broader conversations about tradition versus modernity in Nigerian religious practices. While some churches have adopted more relaxed approaches to worship, others maintain strict codes of conduct to preserve spiritual seriousness. Pastor Obiyeomie’s stance aligns with the latter, positioning Salvation Ministries as a place where worship is conducted with solemnity and decorum.
Despite the controversy, the pastor’s message has resonated with a segment of the public who value structure and respect in religious gatherings. The viral nature of the video suggests that his views have captured national attention, prompting reflection on how worshippers should conduct themselves in sacred spaces. As discussions continue, the incident underscores the evolving dynamics of church culture in Nigeria, where spiritual discipline remains a key point of conversation.
The future of worship practices in Nigeria may well depend on how churches balance tradition with the changing expectations of their congregations.
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