An investigative article by BBC recently published alleges that T.B. Joshua, the late charismatic Nigerian leader of one of the world’s biggest evangelical churches, secretly committed sexual crimes on a mass scale.
The report is based on a two-year investigation, involving more than 15 BBC journalists across three continents, and includes testimonies from more than 25 eyewitnesses and alleged victims from the UK, Nigeria, Ghana, US, South Africa, and Germany.
The allegations against T.B. Joshua include claims of sexual assault, rape, forced abortions, and other forms of abuse against young women from around the world.
Many survivors came forward, stating that they were sexually assaulted by Joshua, with some claiming they were repeatedly raped behind closed doors.
Some victims say they were forced to have abortions after becoming pregnant.
The investigative report described the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) compound in Lagos as a nightmarish world where reality slipped away and horrors unfolded.
Former disciples who lived inside the compound painted a picture of a concrete labyrinth where they were subjected to sexual abuse, violence, and psychological manipulation.
The disciples described a cult-like atmosphere, with strict control over communication, sleep deprivation, and punishments for rule violations.
The report mentions that T.B. Joshua systematically filmed spectacular “healings” throughout his career, and some former insiders claim that these “miracles” were often staged or involved paid individuals exaggerating their symptoms.
The article also highlighted Joshua’s use of these videos to attract followers, including Westerners to build his global television and social media empire.
T.B. Joshua died unexpectedly in June 2021, and was one of the most influential pastors in African history, attracting tens of thousands of followers every week and hosting top political figures and celebrities at his church.
However, the Synagogue Church of All Nations has not responded to the specific allegations presented in the investigation but has stated in the past that previous claims against T.B. Joshua were unfounded.
The investigation raised in the article paints a disturbing picture of abuse and manipulation within the church prompting concerns about the alleged actions and practices within it.
