Nigerian-born Pastor Tobi Adegboyega, the founder of SPAC Nation, is set to be deported from the United Kingdom following a tribunal ruling against his appeal to remain in the country. This decision marks the culmination of a prolonged legal battle and investigations into his church’s controversial practices and financial dealings.
Two Decades of Legal Battles
Adegboyega arrived in the UK in 2005 on a visitor’s visa and has since lived unlawfully in the country. In 2019, he applied for permission to stay, citing his right to a family life under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). His legal team highlighted his marriage to a British citizen and his significant contributions to the community, particularly his efforts to guide at-risk youth away from crime and towards positive opportunities through his church.
Described as a “charismatic” leader, Adegboyega’s supporters argued that his work had profoundly impacted London’s Black communities. However, the UK Home Office presented a contrasting narrative, accusing Adegboyega of exploiting vulnerable individuals and mismanaging church funds.
Allegations of Financial Misconduct
Under Adegboyega’s leadership, SPAC Nation faced serious scrutiny from the Charity Commission. Investigations revealed allegations of financial exploitation, including claims that church leaders encouraged members to commit benefit fraud or even sell their blood to fund donations.
Former church members went as far as to describe SPAC Nation as a “cult,” accusing its leadership of manipulating followers into taking extreme financial risks. These revelations led to the closure of several SPAC Nation branches and heightened concerns over the transparency of the church’s operations.
Adegboyega, however, maintained his innocence, asserting that the allegations were politically motivated. Despite his claims, the tribunal ruled that his evidence was often exaggerated and lacked credibility, ultimately failing to sway the court.
Tribunal’s Verdict
In its judgment, the tribunal acknowledged Adegboyega’s contributions to the community but concluded that these were insufficient to outweigh the allegations against him. It noted that SPAC Nation’s good work could continue without his presence in the UK.
“The good work that SPAC Nation undertakes generally would survive his return to Nigeria,” the tribunal stated, emphasizing that his deportation would not have a lasting negative impact on the church or its members.
The court also ruled that Adegboyega’s ties to the UK were established unlawfully, and any interference in his family life was deemed proportionate given the circumstances.
What’s Next for Adegboyega?
With his appeal dismissed, Adegboyega now faces imminent deportation to Nigeria. His legal team has argued that this move would breach his human rights, but the tribunal rejected these claims.
The case has drawn significant public attention, with many debating the implications for SPAC Nation and Adegboyega’s legacy. While his legal team considers further action, his deportation signals a turning point for the controversial pastor, whose two-decade stay in the UK has been marred by both acclaim and controversy.
As the saga unfolds, the focus now shifts to the future of SPAC Nation and whether the church can thrive in his absence.