Mathew Amaechi
In a move that has sparked conversation across religious and political circles, the Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr. Paul Enenche, has rejected a N30 million donation offered by the Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, during a church-organised crusade in the state.
The dramatic moment unfolded at the Kebbi Healing and Deliverance Crusade, where the governor’s representative, Commissioner for Social Duties Zayyanu Umar Aliero, publicly announced the cash gift.
Addressing the crowd, Aliero said, “Our Governor, His Excellency Dr. Nasir Idris, has graciously approved the donation of the sum of N30 million to the organising committee. As is his custom, he has made this donation available in cash.”
Aliero then attempted to present the money on stage — but Enenche immediately declined the offer.
“If there is anything like an orphanage, if there is anything like that, at your discretion, please apply this amount of money to it,” Enenche said. “No. It will not be received.”
The pastor later elaborated on his stance, stressing that public funds should remain within the public sector and not be used to finance religious events.
“We are one of those who believe that government money should be used for government projects,” he said. “From the land to the building of the Glory Dome, government money is not in it.”
Enenche urged Christians and churches to rely on God for provision rather than state funds, and encouraged that any such donations be routed through government-approved religious bodies like the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board or the Christian Association of Nigeria.
“This is so we can retain our dignity as the body of Christ,” he added, “and be able to speak the truth without fear or compromise.”
Following the pastor’s remarks, Commissioner Aliero acknowledged the decision, saying: “They don’t accept it because whatever he is doing, he is doing it for the sake of God. We truly appreciate and thank him for what he is doing in our state.”
The incident has drawn praise from many Nigerians on social media, who see it as a rare stand for transparency and independence by a religious leader in a landscape often clouded by political patronage.
