Nigerian Pastor Tobi Adegboyega Loses UK Deportation Appeal Amid Fraud Allegations
Nigerian pastor Tobi Adegboyega has lost his appeal against deportation from the UK following allegations of fraud and financial misconduct tied to his controversial church, SPAC Nation. An immigration tribunal ruled that his removal to Nigeria would not breach his human rights, rejecting his claim under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).
Adegboyega, 44, who is related to actor John Boyega, argued that deportation would violate his right to family life, citing his marriage to a British woman and his mentorship work through SPAC Nation. His legal team described him as a “charismatic” leader who had positively influenced hundreds of young people, particularly from London’s Black communities.
Despite claims of praise from figures like former Prime Minister Boris Johnson and senior Metropolitan Police officials, the tribunal noted no direct evidence was presented. Meanwhile, the Home Office painted a different picture, citing financial mismanagement and lack of transparency within SPAC Nation.
“Various manifestations of [Mr. Adegboyega’s] church have been closed down, by either the Charity Commission or the High Court, because of concerns over its finances and lack of transparency,” the tribunal stated.
SPAC Nation was shut down after failing to account for over £1.87 million in expenditures. Former members alleged the church pressured followers to take out loans, commit benefit fraud, and even sell their blood to fund donations. Claims also emerged of church leaders leading extravagant lifestyles and engaging in abuse.
Adegboyega, who overstayed a visitor visa granted in 2005, had applied for leave to remain in 2019 under the ECHR. Both his initial application and subsequent appeal were dismissed, with the tribunal labeling his evidence as “hyperbolic” and accusing him of “grossly inflating his influence.”
The ruling concluded: “We are not satisfied that the good work that SPAC Nation undertakes generally would collapse or even significantly suffer should the Appellant be required to leave the UK.”
The tribunal further stated that Adegboyega’s family and private life in the UK were established unlawfully and could continue despite his deportation. The judgment read: “The interference would therefore be limited, and lawful in all the circumstances.”
Adegboyega now faces deportation to Nigeria, marking the end of his legal battle to remain in the UK.
