Fresh details have surfaced on why the UK’s Upper Immigration Tribunal approved the deportation of Pastor Tobi Adegboyega, the founder of the Salvation Proclaimers Anointed Church (SPAC Nation).
The 44-year-old cleric, who arrived in the UK in 2005 on a visitor visa but overstayed, sought to remain on human rights grounds, citing his marriage to a British citizen.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that after the UK Home Office denied his request, Adegboyega appealed unsuccessfully to the First-Tier Tribunal and later to the Upper Tribunal on August 15, 2022.
Represented by his lawyer, Dele Olawanle, Adegboyega argued that his church’s intervention programs had rescued troubled youths in London, highlighting endorsements from prominent UK figures, including former Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Despite his claims of running food banks and establishing safe houses for young people fleeing gang violence, tribunal judges Bruce and Rastogi ruled against him.
The court found that Adegboyega had exaggerated his contributions, calling them “hyperbolic” and unsupported by evidence. It noted the absence of corroboration from key institutions like the Metropolitan Police, Downing Street, or the Mayor of London.
The tribunal also dismissed Adegboyega’s claim that his presence was indispensable for combating crime in London, asserting that such efforts could continue without him.
Known for his flamboyant lifestyle, the pastor has faced multiple controversies, including a BBC documentary accusing him of financial misconduct within his church. Despite allegations of defrauding members, Adegboyega has never faced criminal charges.
In response to the deportation ruling, Adegboyega dismissed concerns in an Instagram post, claiming he had “survived all sorts” in London. He insisted his work and influence would remain unaffected, even alleging that his companies had raised over £1 million within 24 hours of the news.
While Adegboyega can appeal the tribunal’s decision to the Court of Appeal within 28 days, the ruling underscores the UK government’s stance on immigration violations.
Despite the deportation order, the pastor’s flamboyant persona remains intact, as he continues to project confidence and resilience through social media updates and public appearances.
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