“I Lost Track of Time”: Pastor Tobi Adegboyega Addresses UK Immigration Controversy

Pastor Tobi Adegboyega, the UK-based Nigerian founder of SPAC Nation, has broken his silence on controversies surrounding his immigration status and allegations of financial misconduct. Speaking to the BBC, Adegboyega refuted claims that he is facing a deportation order, clarifying that no such directive exists despite reports of an immigration tribunal ruling for his removal from the UK.

Adegboyega, who arrived in the UK in 2005 at the age of 25 on a visitor’s visa, admitted to overstaying his visa but described the oversight as unintentional. He attributed the nearly ten-year delay in regularising his immigration status to losing track of time and believing that his family was managing the necessary paperwork.

The controversy surrounding the pastor has been compounded by allegations linking him to a £1.87 million fraud involving the misuse of church funds. Adegboyega dismissed these claims as unfounded, attributing them to what he described as “disgruntled members” of his congregation. He noted that such conflicts are inevitable in any large organisation. “How on earth do you run an organisation without disgruntled people?” he remarked.

Despite the allegations, Adegboyega defended his church’s contributions to society, highlighting SPAC Nation’s efforts in addressing violence and crime in the UK. “Our church has helped get hundreds of knives off the streets and tackled gun violence,” he said, underscoring the organisation’s community outreach.

The pastor, known for his flamboyant fashion and luxurious lifestyle, also addressed criticism of his appearance. He explained that his sartorial choices are deliberate, aiming to resonate with the younger generation and divert their admiration away from negative influences like drug dealers. “I put on what is right, what connects to the generation I’m speaking to,” he stated.

As his legal battle over immigration continues, Adegboyega reiterated his confidence in the judicial process. “There is no deportation order, let me make that clear,” he said, maintaining his commitment to fighting for his right to remain in the UK.