Pastor David Ibiyeomie, the founder and general overseer of Salvation Ministries, has issued a stern warning to individuals involved in internet fraud, widely known as “Yahoo Yahoo.” The prominent cleric declared that cybercrime is nothing short of stealing and urged those practicing it within his congregation to either repent or find another place of worship.
Speaking during a recent church service, Ibiyeomie addressed the growing trend of cybercriminals attempting to justify their actions under the guise of financial gain. He emphasized that no amount of rebranding or “coloring” can change the fact that taking someone else’s hard-earned money without consent is theft.
‘I Don’t Care How Much You Have’ — Ibiyeomie Rejects Fraudsters’ Offerings
In a bold declaration, the clergyman stated that he has no interest in receiving financial contributions or tithes from anyone active in internet fraud. He encouraged them to take their money to other churches if they have no intention of abandoning the illegal practice.
“And if in this church you are Yahoo, you go to another church and give your offering. I don’t care how much you have. Go,” Ibiyeomie stated, underscoring that Salvation Ministries does not condone or bless wealth obtained through illicit means.
The Tragic Human Cost of Cybercrime
To illustrate the severe real-world consequences of online scamming, the pastor shared a tragic account of an academic who fell victim to fraudsters. He recounted how a university professor and electrical engineer lost his entire life savings to scammers, leading to his untimely death.
According to Ibiyeomie, the professor collapsed immediately upon discovering his bank account had been completely wiped out, and subsequently passed away due to the shock of the loss.
Warning his congregation against associating with cybercriminals, the cleric urged genuine Christians to distance themselves from anyone involved in the practice, advising them to separate from such individuals immediately to avoid being part of the devastation caused to innocent victims.