December 15, (THEWILL) – Controversial UK-based self-acclaimed pastor, Tobi Adegboyega, founder of the defunct SPAC Nation church, has again addressed controversies surrounding his immigration status, asserting that even if deported, he would thrive in Nigeria.
THEWILL had reported that Adegboyega, who loves publicity risks deportation following a report that he was enmeshed in 1.87 million pounds fraud allegation s
However, Adegboyega outrightly debunked the allegations and expressed frustration over the scrutiny he has faced, particularly from Nigerians.
“I also don’t understand the order because I’ve not paid attention to any immigration rules for a minute. But the question is, to Nigerians, deportation, how does that? I’m not your government official. I don’t lead your country. I’m not your artist because your artists still love them, as you know. But you made them, sponsored them, and bought their albums.
“What’s my own with you? That was my own. I have personal battles, and that becomes your battle. If I were your government official or your current government, I would be a citizen of the country I need and want to be. Because money makes you have choices,” he said.
He elaborated on his unwavering connection to Nigeria, stating that he is unbothered by the possibility of returning.
“So if I have to, why would I be afraid of coming to Nigeria? I’m proud of Nigeria. And the current government is doing well. Anybody who thinks otherwise can jump off the cliff.
“That’s my own opinion. I’m not going to take that out. If I arrive in Nigeria, I will come with a cavalry of outstanding young men and women, and we will live way better than we are living in our assignment ground. I don’t need to stress about how to have money in Nigeria. Two shoes, three maybe, will sustain me for three years,” he said.
His SPAC Nation, also known as Nation Family, was established in 2012 as a charity to help vulnerable people but is now deemed insolvent. The UK government shut down the church, based in Croydon, South London, in 2022 due to its failure to account for funds and a lack of transparency in its operations. The church had already been embroiled in controversies.
A documentary further alleged claims of financial irregularities and undue pressure placed on members to make significant monetary contributions and even claims that young congregants were encouraged to sell their blood to meet economic demands.
Allegations from former members also highlighted instances of financial exploitation by church leaders.
In May 2020, Adegboyega stepped down as the Lead Pastor of SPAC Nation, handing over the church’s leadership to Samuel Akokhia.
Adegboyega’s personal life has also drawn public attention. He reportedly resided in a £2.5 million mansion in Surrey.
Before he moved to the UK, Adegboyega was a pastor with Nigerian based World Evangelism Bible Church, WEBIC founded by Pastor Samson Ayorinde. He allegedly defrauded a member of some money with which he allegedly used to make his way to the UK.
During his early days in the UK, he shared a room with his cousin, British Nigerian actor John Boyega. Adegboyega worked as a kitchen porter before setting up his religious organization.
Ivory Ukonu is a versatile journalist with many years of experience, with entertainment and society reporting as her area of core competence.
