The British government is set to deport Pastor Tobi Adegboyega, founder of the now-defunct SPAC Nation, following an immigration tribunal ruling against his appeal to remain in the UK.
Background
Pastor Adegboyega, who arrived in the UK on a visitor’s visa in 2005, has lived unlawfully in the country since its expiration. The tribunal’s ruling follows years of scrutiny of SPAC Nation, which the UK Charity Commission and High Court accused of financial misconduct and lack of transparency, leading to its closure.
The allegations include failure to account for £1.87 million in outgoings and reports that church members were coerced into taking loans, committing fraud, and even selling their blood to meet donation demands.
Deportation Appeal and Tribunal Findings
Adegboyega appealed his deportation under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), citing:
- His right to family life as he is married to a British citizen.
- His community work through SPAC Nation, which he claimed helped hundreds of disadvantaged youths in London.
The tribunal, however, dismissed his appeal, citing:
- Financial Mismanagement: SPAC Nation was accused of serious financial misconduct over an extended period.
- Cult Allegations: Former members alleged that the church functioned as a cult exploiting vulnerable youths.
- Unsubstantiated Claims: The tribunal found Adegboyega’s evidence “hyperbolic” and his influence “grossly inflated.”
The tribunal stated that the pastor’s family and private life relationships, established unlawfully in the UK, could continue after his deportation to Nigeria.
Home Office’s Argument
The Home Office argued that Adegboyega’s contributions to the UK were overstated, citing the closure of SPAC Nation as evidence of ongoing financial irregularities. It contended that Adegboyega’s deportation was necessary to uphold the integrity of immigration laws.
Tribunal Judgment Highlights
- SPAC Nation’s closure was tied to financial irregularities and lack of transparency.
- Allegations from former members, including fraud and exploitation, were deemed significant.
- Adegboyega’s work with SPAC Nation would not collapse or suffer significantly if he were deported.
- The tribunal ruled that his deportation was proportionate, lawful, and compliant with human rights laws.
Adegboyega’s Defense
Adegboyega denied the allegations, asserting that accusations against him and the church were politically motivated. He emphasized that no criminal charges had been filed over the church’s finances.
Reaction and Implications
The tribunal’s decision affirms the UK government’s stance on addressing unlawful immigration and financial irregularities within organizations. Adegboyega’s deportation underscores the government’s commitment to upholding transparency and accountability, particularly for entities with significant public influence.
