KEY POINTS

• The deportation of Tobi Adegboyega follows fraud allegations involving £1.87 million.
• The tribunal dismissed claims of political motivation by the tribunal and of cult allegations.
• The closure of SPAC Nation blamed lack of transparency and financial mismanagement.

The Nigerian pastor Tobi Adegboyega, 44, stands to be deported from UK after being accused of financial misconduct relative to his controversial church, SPAC Nation, says UK immigration tribunal.

The church was shut down after it was accused of handiling over £1.87 million and the allegations of financial mismanagement and also lack of transparency.

Legal battle and fraud allegations

Actor John Boyega’s cousin, Mr. Adegboyega, argued that he had been given no chance to make his case and that deportation would breach his right to family life under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

But the tribunal dismissed his appeal, citing findings by the Charity Commission, and other authorities. Investigations found SPAC Nation was encouraging young members to borrow money, commit fraud and even selling blood to make money.

The Home Office further argued the pastor’s personal presence in the UK was not necessary for the church to carry on that work.

Tribunal findings

Mr. Adegboyega’s claims of influence and contribution to UK society were overblown by this tribunal. ‘We are not satisfied that the good work SPAC Nation undertakes would collapse or suffer significantly should [he] leave the UK,’ she added.

The court also said his family and private life ties he made while he was illegally in the UK until 2005 should continue after his return to Nigeria.

The tribunal dismissed claims the allegations were on political grounds, stating ‘The decision to refuse leave to remain was wholly proportionate.’