Tobi Adegboyega, a Nigerian pastor and cousin of “Star Wars” actor John Boyega, is set to be deported from the United Kingdom following allegations of financial misconduct involving £1.87 million. An immigration tribunal rejected Adegboyega’s appeal against deportation, dismissing his claims that it would violate his human rights.
Adegboyega, once the leader of SPAC Nation, a controversial church shut down for failing to account for substantial funds and operating without transparency, argued that his deportation would infringe on his right to family life under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). His legal team highlighted his marriage to a British citizen and his extensive community work as reasons to halt his removal.
The pastor described himself as a “charismatic leader” who had positively influenced hundreds of young people, particularly from Black communities in London, by steering them away from crime. His defense pointed to endorsements he allegedly received from high-profile figures, including former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and senior Metropolitan Police officers, although no supporting testimony was presented in court.
Adegboyega also warned that his absence would jeopardize the continuation of several community projects he had established, claiming these initiatives would shrink or collapse without his leadership.
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However, the tribunal sided with the Home Office, which argued that SPAC Nation’s financial dealings were highly questionable. According to the judgment, various entities linked to Adegboyega’s church had been shut down by the Charity Commission and the High Court due to concerns over financial mismanagement and a lack of accountability.
The allegations against SPAC Nation, including its inability to justify millions of pounds in exports, cast a shadow over Adegboyega’s claims of community contributions. The tribunal concluded that deportation was justified, marking the end of a controversial chapter for the pastor and his ministry.
This decision has drawn mixed reactions, with some highlighting Adegboyega’s alleged contributions to community development, while others view it as a necessary move to ensure accountability within religious organizations. The saga underscores the UK’s increasing scrutiny of financial practices in charitable institutions and the legal challenges faced by high-profile figures involved in misconduct.
