A Nigerian pastor accused of involvement in a £1.87 million fraud has lost his appeal against deportation from the UK, despite arguing that it would violate his human rights.
Tobi Adegboyega, 44, a cousin of Star Wars actor John Boyega, was ordered to be deported to Nigeria following investigations that revealed financial misconduct within his church, SPAC Nation. The controversial organization was shut down for failing to account for over £1.87 million and lacking financial transparency.
Adegboyega argued that deportation would infringe on his right to family life under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), citing his marriage to a British woman and his work with SPAC Nation, which he claimed positively impacted London’s black communities. His legal team described him as a “charismatic” leader whose projects had received praise from prominent figures, including former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and senior police officials. However, no evidence from these individuals was presented in court.
The Home Office disputed Adegboyega’s claims, asserting that his church had been linked to troubling practices. Former members accused the organization of coercing young people into donating money through extreme means, such as taking out loans, committing fraud, or even selling their blood. Critics also alleged that church leaders lived extravagant lifestyles and engaged in abusive behavior.
The tribunal heard that Adegboyega had overstayed a visitor visa since 2005 and that his 2019 application for leave to remain was initially rejected. His defense argued that claims against him were politically motivated and unsubstantiated. However, the Charity Commission’s investigation found evidence of severe financial misconduct over an extended period.
The tribunal deemed Adegboyega’s testimony exaggerated and concluded that SPAC Nation’s operations would not collapse if he were deported. It ruled that his family and private life in the UK, established unlawfully, could continue despite his return to Nigeria.
The judgment affirmed that the decision to refuse leave to remain was proportionate and lawful.