Kebbi Crusade Stunned as Pastor Paul Enenche Declines ₦30 Million Government Gift
A recent evangelistic crusade in Kebbi State, Nigeria, took an unexpected
turn when Dr. Paul Enenche, Senior Pastor of Dunamis International
Gospel Centre, graciously and publicly rejected a ₦30 million donation
offered by the state governor, Nasir Idris.
The event, which was widely attended by worshippers, church leaders, and
political dignitaries, was intended to be a time of prayer, healing, and
revival in the northern state. But Pastor Enenche’s bold decision to
turn down the donation has now become the focal point of national and
international discussions around Christian integrity, political influence in
the church, and financial ethics.
The Donation: A Gesture from the
Governor
During the high-energy crusade, the Commissioner for Social Duties,
Zayyanu Umar Aliero, stood before the crowd to deliver a message from
Governor Nasir Idris. The governor, who was not present at the event, had
reportedly sent a cash donation of ₦30 million as a token of
appreciation for Pastor Enenche’s visit to Kebbi State.
“The governor expresses his gratitude for the presence of Pastor Enenche
in Kebbi. As a gesture of his goodwill and in support of the work of God, he is
donating the sum of ₦30 million,” the commissioner said.
The crowd initially responded with polite applause, as such donations are
not uncommon in religious gatherings in Nigeria. But what followed next
surprised everyone.
Pastor Enenche’s Immediate and Public
Rejection
Visibly caught off guard but composed, Pastor Enenche took the
microphone and made it clear that the church would not be accepting the
funds.
“We sincerely appreciate the gesture and the governor’s generous heart,” he began. “But we will not take
this money. Please channel it instead to orphanages or any other charitable
institution of your choice.”
His words were received with stunned silence, followed by applause and
cheers from some in the congregation who were visibly moved by the pastor’s
stance.
Why Pastor Enenche Rejected the ₦30
Million
The decision was not driven by disdain for the government, but rather
rooted in principles of financial transparency, non-partisanship, and
spiritual accountability.
In a country where politicians are often seen "buying favor"
from religious groups, Enenche’s action signals a strong refusal to allow
politics to mix with the pulpit.
“It’s not about disrespecting the governor,” a Dunamis representative later told
media. “It’s about ensuring that the church stays focused on its mission and
avoids the perception of being influenced by political funding.”
A Rare Stand in Nigerian Christianity
Nigeria’s religious landscape is often intertwined with its political
system. From campaign donations to pulpit endorsements, politicians
frequently engage with pastors and church institutions in strategic ways.
But this moment marks a rare departure from the norm. Many
observers say that Pastor Enenche’s decision sets a new ethical standard
for Christian leaders.
“This is the kind of spiritual leadership we’ve been crying for,” said Bolaji Adebayo, a Christian
political analyst. “The Church must lead the way in setting moral
boundaries.”
Public Reactions: Applause, Debate,
and Admiration
Social media platforms and Christian forums across Nigeria were immediately
flooded with reactions to the news.
Positive Reactions:
- “God bless Pastor Enenche! This
is true Christianity!”
- “Now this is what integrity looks
like. He refused to be bought!”
- “May more pastors take this kind
of bold stand. It gives hope.”
Others Raised Questions:
- “Why reject funds that could be
used to build the church?”
- “Was the rejection public
relations or genuine conviction?”
- “Would he have accepted if the
funds were given privately?”
Regardless of perspective, the story has reignited conversations about money
in ministry, political neutrality, and servant leadership.
Kebbi State Government Responds
In a classy and conciliatory move, Governor Nasir Idris’
representative accepted Pastor Enenche’s decision and praised him for his
humility.
“We respect the pastor’s wishes and commend his commitment to spiritual
values. The money will be redirected as requested,” Commissioner Zayyanu Aliero stated.
The governor’s team also acknowledged the value of Pastor Enenche’s
visit, emphasizing the spiritual impact of the crusade and the goodwill
it fostered in the Kebbi community.
Impact on Dunamis International Gospel Centre’s Image
This incident comes at a time when Nigerian churches are under intense
scrutiny over finances, affiliations, and the prosperity gospel debate.
Dunamis, a global megachurch with thousands of branches and a massive
headquarters in Abuja, has always presented itself as mission-driven and
uncompromisingly biblical.
By rejecting a large sum from a state governor, Pastor Enenche may
have cemented the church’s reputation as a ministry that prioritizes purity
of the gospel over political alliance.
Spiritual Implications: Money,
Ministry, and Motives
Scripture is filled with warnings about money compromising ministry:
“The love of money is the root of all kinds of evil…” — 1 Timothy 6:10
“You cannot serve both God and mammon.” — Matthew 6:24
Pastor Enenche’s action echoes biblical patterns of prophets refusing
gifts from kings to maintain moral clarity and divine authority.
“Elisha replied to the king of Israel, ‘As surely as the Lord lives, whom
I serve, I will not accept a thing.’” — 2 Kings 5:16
In turning down the money, Enenche reaffirmed the Church’s role as a
spiritual beacon, not a political pawn.
What This Means for Other Pastors and
Christian Leaders
This moment is a wake-up call for other church leaders, especially
in Africa:
- Avoid the trap of political
compromise
- Be transparent with finances and
donations
- Redirect unclean money to clear
causes like orphanages or missions
- Remember that the Church is
God’s—not the government’s
Lessons for the Nigerian Church and
Beyond
- Financial Integrity Builds Trust:
Churches that demonstrate transparency gain more respect from the public and media. - Rejecting Political Ties Can
Bring Revival:
By cutting off worldly alliances, churches can walk in prophetic power again. - Generosity Doesn’t Always Come
with Pure Intentions:
Even seemingly generous gifts can carry unseen expectations or obligations. - Public Acts of Righteousness Can
Spark Reformation:
One bold decision can reset standards for an entire generation of Christian leaders.
Dunamis Crusade Still A Success
Despite Controversy
Despite the unexpected development, the Kebbi crusade ended on a high
note, with reports of:
- Massive turnout
- Several salvation decisions
- Testimonies of healing and
deliverance
- Widespread media coverage of the event and the pastor’s
response
Many described the event as revival fire igniting the north, even
beyond spiritual impact.
When the Church Says “No”
to Power
In rejecting ₦30 million, Pastor Paul Enenche did more than decline
money—he declared that the gospel is not for sale.
He reminded believers, politicians, and fellow clergy that the pulpit
must remain holy—untainted by politics, bribery, or perception of
compromise.
In a world where wealth is often worshipped, this act of spiritual resistance may have more value than the donation itself.
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