Tobi Adegboyega, a prominent Nigerian pastor and the founder of SPAC Nation, has lost his fight to remain in the United Kingdom. The decision follows allegations of financial misconduct and fraud tied to his controversial church, which has faced significant scrutiny in recent years.
Immigration Tribunal Rejects Human Rights Claims
Adegboyega, 44, argued that deportation would breach his human rights under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). He cited his marriage to a British citizen and his work with SPAC Nation, which he claimed had positively impacted London’s Black communities, as grounds to remain in the UK. Despite these arguments, an immigration tribunal upheld the Home Office’s decision to deport him, stating that his private and family life could continue in Nigeria.
SPAC Nation’s Troubled History
SPAC Nation, the church founded by Adegboyega, has faced numerous allegations over the years. Authorities have shut down various iterations of the organization due to financial irregularities and a lack of transparency. The Charity Commission and the High Court uncovered significant issues, including an inability to account for over £1.87 million in expenditures.
The church’s practices have also drawn sharp criticism. Former members accused its leaders of coercing vulnerable individuals into extreme actions, such as taking out loans, committing benefit fraud, and even selling their blood to meet financial demands. These allegations painted a troubling picture of a church allegedly exploiting its members while leaders lived lavish lifestyles.
Claims of Positive Impact Dismissed
Adegboyega’s legal team presented him as a “charismatic leader” dedicated to mentoring youth, especially within London’s Black communities. They highlighted his efforts to steer young people away from crime and noted that his work had reportedly earned praise from high-profile figures, including former Prime Minister Boris Johnson. However, the tribunal found no corroborating evidence from these individuals to support his claims.
The tribunal described Adegboyega’s statements as exaggerated, noting that his influence was “grossly inflated.” It further determined that SPAC Nation’s good works would not collapse or significantly suffer if Adegboyega were deported.
Legal Challenges and Visa Overstay
The pastor’s legal troubles began when he overstayed a visitor visa issued in 2005. He applied for leave to remain in 2019, invoking his rights under the ECHR. Both his initial application and subsequent appeal were dismissed. The tribunal emphasized that his family and private life relationships were formed during his period of unlawful residence in the UK, diminishing the strength of his case.
Deportation Ruling
In its final judgment, the tribunal stated, “The interference [with his family life] would therefore be limited and lawful in all the circumstances.” The decision concludes Adegboyega’s years-long legal battle, paving the way for his deportation to Nigeria.
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