The recent BBC Africa Eye documentary, titled “Disciples: The Cult of T.B. Joshua,” has ignited a range of responses within the Nigerian community.
Released on Monday, the 150-minute exposé delves into serious allegations against the late renowned Nigerian pastor, Temitope Joshua, commonly known as T.B. Joshua.
In-Depth Investigation
The investigative piece, conducted over two years, presents first-hand accounts from over 25 individuals, shedding light on accusations such as sexual assault, physical abuse, fabricated miracles, and alleged trauma attributed to the late pastor.
The comprehensive exploration of controversies surrounding T.B. Joshua, who passed away in June 2021 at the age of 57, is presented in three episodes.
Wave of Opinions
Since the documentary’s release, a wave of opinions has swept across the internet, with Nigerians expressing diverse views on the unfolding controversy.
Prominent figures, including politicians like Dele Momodu and Femi Fani-Kayode, have also shared their perspectives on the matter.
T.B. Joshua’s Legacy
T.B. Joshua, a highly influential religious figure and one of Africa’s wealthiest pastors, gained widespread acclaim during his lifetime as the founder of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) in Lagos.
Known for predicting the future and conducting ‘miracles,’ he hosted numerous African leaders, celebrities, and ordinary individuals seeking his spiritual guidance.
Previous Controversies
Even in death, T.B. Joshua is not exempt from controversies. Past instances include allegations of sexual slavery, manipulation, diabolism, deceit, and contrived miracles.
Additionally, his church faced criticism beyond Nigeria’s borders, with the Cameroonian government banning his church in 2012, describing him as “diabolical.”
Guest House Collapse of 2014
The most significant scandal involved the collapse of a guest house within SCOAN’s premises in 2014, resulting in 116 deaths.
While T.B. Joshua suggested external causes, officials stated that the church did not seek necessary approvals for additional construction.
Current Silence from SCOAN
In response to the recent documentary, the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) has not issued any statements addressing the claims and allegations made.
The BBC contacted SCOAN for comment, but they did not respond to the specific allegations, reiterating that previous claims against Joshua were unsubstantiated.
Loyal Defenders Amid Mixed Reactions
As reactions vary, some notable Nigerians, including Femi Fani-Kayode and Dele Momodu, have expressed unwavering support for T.B. Joshua and his church.
Fani-Kayode emphasized that no man or institution, not even the BBC, can tarnish T.B. Joshua’s enduring legacy.
Stay tuned as we bring you more on TB Joshua’s BBC Documentary commentary.