Tobi Adegboyega, a Nigerian pastor and former leader of SPAC Nation, is set to be deported from the UK following serious allegations of fraud. His church, once praised for its efforts to support young people in London, has been accused of mismanaging over £1.87 million and encouraging unethical practices among its members.

Tobi Adegboyega, 44, is a cousin of Star Wars actor John Boyega. He arrived in the UK in 2005 on a visitor visa but stayed unlawfully after it expired. He founded SPAC Nation, a church that claimed to help disadvantaged youth but faced criticism for alleged exploitation and lavish spending by its leaders.

Investigations revealed that SPAC Nation encouraged members, many from low-income backgrounds, to donate large sums of money. Some members reportedly resorted to taking loans, committing benefit fraud, or even selling their blood to contribute. The church also failed to account for millions of pounds, leading to its closure by the Charity Commission and the High Court.

Adegboyega argued that deportation would violate his human rights since he is married to a British citizen. He also claimed his work with SPAC Nation brought significant value to the UK, helping young people avoid crime and violence.

However, the tribunal found these claims exaggerated, stating there was no solid evidence that his absence would harm the church’s initiatives. It also noted that Adegboyega’s ties to the UK were established while he was living unlawfully.

The tribunal ruled that deportation was lawful and proportionate, emphasizing that his connections to the UK would not be severely disrupted by his return to Nigeria.

This case serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and ethical practices in leadership, especially for organizations serving vulnerable communities. While Adegboyega faces deportation, the spotlight remains on ensuring charities operate with integrity and accountability.