According to BBC News, the accusations linked to TB Joshua include physical violence, torture, assault, forced abortions, and manipulation of so-called "miracle healings."
In a recent revelation spanning almost two decades, a group of former members of the Synagogue Church of All Nations, including five British nationals, have come forward with harrowing allegations of atrocities committed by the late Nigerian televangelist, TB Joshua.
The BBC's two-year investigation reveals details about the alleged abuses that took place in a covert Lagos complex.
The Synagogue Church of All Nations, which maintains that earlier accusations against them were baseless, has not answered to the accusations.
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The late TB Joshua had a sizable international following and was well-known for his captivating preaching. He passed away in 2021.
However, the testimonies collected during the investigation paint a grim picture of the darker side of his legacy.
Over 25 former "disciples" from various countries, including the UK, Nigeria, the US, South Africa, Ghana, Namibia, and Germany, shared their disturbing experiences within the church.
The victims, many of whom joined as teenagers, recount instances of physical abuse, child abuse, and being subjected to chains and whips at the hands of TB Joshua.
Several women bravely spoke out about enduring assault, with some alleging repeated rapes over years within the compound.
One survivor, Jessica Kaimu from Namibia, revealed that her ordeal lasted more than five years.
She claimed to have been assaulted by TB Joshua at the age of 17, leading to five forced abortions.
Kaimu described the procedures as "backdoor type… medical treatments," expressing concern about the potential danger they posed to the victims.
The accounts provided by multiple interviewees paint a chilling picture of life within the church, with allegations of individuals being stripped, beaten with electrical cables and horse whips, and routinely deprived of sleep.
Many interviewees, including Rae from the UK, drew parallels between their experiences and being part of a cult, shedding light on the pervasive manipulation and control exerted by TB Joshua.
Notably, in some British cases, victims claimed that their transport to Lagos was facilitated by TB Joshua, often in coordination with other UK churches.
The disclosures cast doubt on the widely accepted belief that TB Joshua is a powerful televangelist and pastor who is admired by celebrities, public figures, and international football players.
The Synagogue Church of All Nations has decided not to explicitly address these accusations, despite their grave nature.
The investigation also uncovered claims that TB Joshua staged "miracle healings," casting doubt on the authenticity of some of the events broadcasted to millions worldwide.
With these recent accusations, TB Joshua's reputation—once hailed as one of the most significant pastors in African history—is being cast in a negative light.
