Founder and Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr Paul Enenche, has refused a ₦30 million cheque reportedly offered by Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris during a courtesy visit to the church’s headquarters in Abuja, igniting debate over the ethics of public‑funded donations to religious institutions.
According to church insiders and footage now circulating on social media, Governor Idris led a small state delegation to Dunamis on Sunday, presenting what he described as a “token of support” for the church’s humanitarian outreaches. Moments after the cheque was handed over, Dr Enenche thanked the governor for the gesture but politely declined, urging that the funds be redirected to pressing needs in Kebbi State, particularly unpaid teachers’ salaries and ongoing flood‑relief projects.
“Your Excellency, I deeply appreciate the heart behind this gift,” Enenche said from the pulpit. “But the welfare of your people is a higher priority. Please take this back and use it to solve urgent problems in Kebbi. That will be the real kingdom service.”
The Kebbi State Government released a brief statement late Monday, confirming the attempted donation but downplaying any embarrassment.
“His Excellency meant only to encourage faith‑based social work,” the statement read. “We respect Dr Enenche’s decision and will channel the funds toward educational and health interventions as advised.”
Social media users lauded the pastor’s stance, framing it as a call for greater accountability in the use of public funds. Hashtags #ReturnTheMoney and #MoralLeadership trended on X (formerly Twitter).
Civil‑society groups, however, asked why discretionary gifts of this size are possible amid widespread poverty. “Whether accepted or refused, the question is: where did this ₦30 million come from in the state budget?” said Abubakar Sagir of the Good Governance Network.
Dr Enenche, known for outspoken sermons on national issues, recently condemned mass killings in Benue State and criticized government inaction. Analysts say Sunday’s incident cements his reputation as a clergy voice willing to challenge political elites.
Kebbi officials say an itemized spending plan for the re‑assigned ₦30 million will be published within two weeks. Meanwhile, transparency advocates are urging other states to follow suit by making all “donations” line‑item public.
For now, the spotlight remains on both the pastor who said “no” and the governor who must now prove that the money will, indeed, serve the people who need it most.
