British Broadcasting Corporation’s (BBC) three-part documentary has promised to shed light on the concealed life of the late Nigerian charismatic pastor, televangelist, and philanthropist, Temitope Balogun Joshua, also known as TB Joshua, founder and overseer of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) which has its headquarters in Lagos, Nigeria.
The documentary which released its first part on Monday, January 8, exposes instances of alleged sexual exploitation, staged miracles, rape and forced abortions, cover-ups, and manipulation that spanned a period of over two decades, by TB Joshua who died in 2021.
The BBC conducted interviews with not less than 30 former members and workers of SCOAN to uncover the truth. The BBC documentary is titled The Cult of TB Joshua.
Alleged sex exploitation and manipulation unveiled
The first part of the documentary uncovers sex exploitation allegedly orchestrated by TB Joshua, affecting members of his congregation for more than two decades. Survivors revealed instances of abuse, harassment, forced sex, and manipulation, with some being coerced into having abortions.
Former disciples shared harrowing experiences, recounting how they were manipulated, silenced, and threatened into submission. TB Joshua justified these acts by claiming they were for the salvation of the victims.
SCOAN’s Involvement in Cover-Ups and Deceptive Practices
The documentary exposes how SCOAN shielded its congregation from the truth about the collapse of one of its guesthouses in 2014. The building had structural defects, but members were misled with a false narrative about an aircraft flying over it.
Additionally, the investigation revealed that individuals were dismembered under the rubble, and deceased bodies were transported in SCOAN ambulances to conceal the true extent of the disaster from the press.
Mistreatment and Ostracization Within the Church
The documentary delves into the mistreatment of TB Joshua’s daughter born out of wedlock, Ajoke, who was expelled from the church after confronting her father about sex abuse allegations. Former members also described instances of humiliation inflicted on individuals within the church, including Constance Marten, allegedly ‘groomed’ by TB Joshua.
YouTube Suspension and Controversial Remarks
In a significant turn of events in April 2021, YouTube made the decision to suspend the channel of renowned pastor TB Joshua, known for his Emmanuel TV broadcasts. The suspension came in the wake of highly controversial remarks made by TB Joshua regarding the alleged connection between homosexuality and demonic possession.
This move by YouTube sparked widespread debate and criticism, as the platform took a stance against content that was deemed to be promoting harmful beliefs and contributing to discrimination.
Marten’s Personal Transformation and Distressing Experience
Francis Agolo, the ex-partner of Constance Marten, shed light on her significant transformation after spending time in Nigeria, particularly in a compound associated with TB Joshua. He observed a noticeable shift in her demeanour, describing her as caring and loving before the experience but withdrawn and distressed thereafter.
Marten, who had shared her harrowing ordeal of living among 50 girls in a religious cult, highlighted the leader’s overpowering influence. The cult leader dismissed their families and asserted himself as the sole father figure, showcasing the extent of control and manipulation within the group.
Watch first part of documentary below:
https://youtu.be/UZZVQxjXWCg