Nigerian pastor Tobi Adegboyega has lost his legal bid to remain in the UK following allegations of fraud and financial misconduct tied to his church, SPAC Nation. Despite his claim that deportation would infringe on his human rights, a UK immigration tribunal ruled he should be deported to Nigeria.
Adegboyega, 44, a cousin of Star Wars actor John Boyega, argued that deportation would violate his right to family life under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). He cited his marriage to a British citizen and his community outreach through SPAC Nation as reasons to remain in the country.
His legal team described him as a “charismatic” leader who mentored hundreds of young people, especially from London’s Black communities, helping them avoid crime. They also claimed his efforts had been recognized by figures such as former Prime Minister Boris Johnson and senior Metropolitan Police officials, though no formal endorsements were presented.
The tribunal, however, sided with the Home Office, which highlighted serious concerns about Adegboyega’s activities. “Various manifestations of [Mr. Adegboyega’s] church have been closed down by either the Charity Commission or the High Court due to financial irregularities and a lack of transparency,” the judgment stated.
SPAC Nation was shut down after failing to explain over £1.87 million in expenditures. Allegations surfaced that church members were pressured to donate money through extreme measures, including taking loans, committing benefit fraud, and even selling blood. Former members labeled the organization a cult, accusing its leaders of living extravagantly and engaging in abusive practices.
The Home Office argued that these factors undermined Adegboyega’s claim of contributing positively to the UK. The tribunal concluded that his deportation was justified.
