The founder of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, has restated and defended his recent controversial remarks on poverty, asserting that Jesus Christ did not associate with poor individuals and that believers should likewise avoid close association with them.

The preacher’s comments have ignited a storm of criticism across social media platforms and within religious communities, following his claim that Jesus “hated poverty” and “never entered the home of a poor person” during His earthly ministry.

In a follow-up sermon delivered in his Port Harcourt-based church on Sunday, Pastor Ibiyeomie maintained that his assertions were divinely inspired, claiming the Holy Spirit personally affirmed the correctness of his position.

He said, “Some persons called me and said internet was on fire. I wasn’t interested, but out of curiosity, I checked. Then I asked the Holy Spirit to tell me if I’m wrong and I would take the blame.

“He was dictating God’s word to me verbatim in the bathroom, he said ‘you’re not wrong, you’re right.’ I said how? he said ‘I became sin for humanity, true?’ I said yes.’’

Drawing a parallel between sin and poverty, the clergyman said the Holy Spirit explained that just as believers should not associate with sinners, they should also avoid associating with the poor.

The preacher said, “He said, do you like sin’? I said No. He said you can only lead people to Christ, but you cannot be a friend to a sinner. He said if a believer is mixing with sinners, everybody gets angry. So if a believer mixes with the poor, everybody should be angry.

“He said ‘I was made poor. So you can be rich. So poverty is not of me.”

Pastor Ibiyeomie emphasised that his message does not discourage charitable acts but warns against embracing poverty as a lifestyle or mindset. He further stated that the redemptive work of Christ includes deliverance from sin, sickness, and poverty.”

He said, You can help the poor but don’t associate with the poor. You don’t have money does not mean you’re poor. Poverty is mentality. And he gave me scriptures.

He said ‘I paid a price for sin, poverty and sickness’. Why will you reject sin and accept poverty. And those who rejects poverty in line with God’s word, these three things will never be identified with you.”

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