No fewer than 25 individuals have come forward with eyewitness accounts, detailing allegations of sexual assault, physical abuse, faked miracles, and trauma purportedly endured at the hands of the late Nigerian pastor, Temitope Joshua, also known as TB Joshua, according to a report by BBC on Monday.
TB Joshua, one of Africa’s most influential religious figures and wealthiest pastors, held a prominent position with his Synagogue Church of All Nations, housed in a 12-storey building in Lagos State’s Ikotun area, where he resided alongside numerous followers. Renowned for his purported miracles that claimed to heal various ailments, Joshua garnered a global audience and fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Despite the church’s claim that Joshua spent his final moments in service to God, a two-year investigation by the BBC, in collaboration with Open Democracy, involved over 15 journalists across three continents and delved into allegations of sexual assault, physical abuse, solitary confinement, and fake miracles, among other issues.
The report revealed testimonies from more than 25 eyewitnesses and alleged victims from various countries, suggesting that Joshua had been abusing and raping young women several times a week for nearly two decades. One victim, Rae, recounted her experience as part of a group called “disciples,” elite followers living in Joshua’s compound. She detailed her struggle with psychological trauma, attempted suicide, and the manipulation she endured.
Other victims shared similar experiences, describing frequent incidents of abuse and violence. Many believed they were the only ones facing such assaults and refrained from sharing their experiences with fellow disciples, as they were encouraged to report on each other.
The BBC’s investigation also disclosed allegations of financial misconduct, estimating that Joshua made tens of millions of dollars through various channels, including fundraising, video sales, and international appearances.
The church, however, denied the allegations, stating that they were unfounded and unsubstantiated. Former followers, who had attempted to speak out previously, claimed they were silenced or discredited by the Synagogue Church of All Nations.
The investigative report shed light on the dark side of TB Joshua’s ministry, revealing claims of orchestrated miracles, coerced confessions, and a culture of control and manipulation within the church. Despite the passing of TB Joshua, the church, now led by his widow, Evelyn, remains operational.
