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UK Tribunal Orders Deportation Of Nigerian Pastor Over Fraud Allegations

Published

12 hours ago

Dec 4, 2024.

Nigerian pastor Tobi Adegboyega, 44, has lost his appeal against deportation from the UK following allegations of financial misconduct and fraudulent activities linked to his controversial church, SPAC Nation.

An immigration tribunal upheld the Home Office’s decision to deport Adegboyega, citing evidence of serious financial mismanagement and his unlawful residency since overstaying a visitor visa in 2005.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Adegboyega, a cousin of actor John Boyega, led SPAC Nation, a church accused of exploiting vulnerable members for financial gain. Investigations, including a report by The Telegraph, revealed that SPAC Nation failed to account for over £1.87 million in outgoings and operated with significant transparency issues.

The Charity Commission and High Court previously shut down SPAC Nation due to concerns over its finances and allegations of misconduct.

In his appeal, Adegboyega argued that deportation would violate his right to family life under the European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR), as he is married to a British citizen.

He also claimed his work with SPAC Nation positively impacted London’s Black community, helping hundreds of young people avoid crime.

Adegboyega asserted that political figures, including former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, had praised his efforts, although no official testimony was submitted.

UK Deportation Nigerian Pastor

The Home Office contended that the church had a history of financial irregularities and accusations of cult-like behavior.

Former members alleged they were coerced into taking loans, committing fraud, and even selling their blood to meet financial demands. The tribunal noted these allegations, stating they undermined Adegboyega’s claims of value to UK society.

While Adegboyega denied criminal wrongdoing and labeled the accusations politically motivated, the tribunal found his testimony exaggerated and implausible. It ruled that SPAC Nation’s initiatives would not collapse in his absence and emphasized that his family and private life could continue in Nigeria.

Concluding that his deportation was lawful and proportionate, the tribunal dismissed Adegboyega’s appeal. It stated his unlawful status in the UK weakened his claims under the ECHR, and the interference with his rights was justified.