In a shocking exposé, the BBC’s extensive two-year investigation into the late founder of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), Prophet T.B. Joshua, has uncovered a harrowing tale of widespread abuse, manipulation, and atrocities within one of the world’s largest Christian evangelical churches.
Former members, including British nationals, have come forward with disturbing allegations of rape, forced abortions, physical violence, and torture spanning almost two decades.
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The investigation delves into the dark underbelly of SCOAN, revealing a series of serious accusations against T.B. Joshua, a charismatic televangelist with a massive global following.
QUEST TIMES unveils the major takeaways from the BBC’s revelations, shedding light on the alleged misconduct that transpired within the secretive confines of the church, raising profound questions about accountability, justice, and the need for further investigation into the late prophet’s actions.
Below are eight major takeaways
- Widespread Abuse and Torture Uncovered: The BBC’s two-year investigation into the late founder of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), Prophet T.B. Joshua, reveals evidence of widespread abuse and torture. Dozens of former church members, including five British nationals, allege atrocities such as rape, forced abortions, physical violence, and torture spanning nearly 20 years.
- Serious Allegations Against T.B. Joshua: The investigation includes multiple eyewitness accounts detailing instances of physical violence, child abuse, and people being whipped and chained by T.B. Joshua. Numerous women claim to have been sexually assaulted, with some stating they were repeatedly raped for years within the compound. Shockingly, there are also multiple allegations of forced abortions following the alleged rapes, with one woman reporting five terminations.
- Manipulation of “Miracle Healings” Exposed: The BBC’s findings shed light on how T.B. Joshua allegedly faked “miracle healings,” broadcast to millions globally. Multiple first-hand accounts reveal the deceptive practices employed by Joshua, raising questions about the authenticity of the purported miraculous events.
- Former Church Insiders Speak Out: Over 25 former “disciples” from various countries, including the UK, Nigeria, US, South Africa, Ghana, Namibia, and Germany, provide corroborating testimony about their experiences within SCOAN. Many victims were in their teens when they first joined, and several liken their experiences to being in a cult
- Efforts to Silence and Intimidate Whistleblowers: The BBC investigation highlights efforts to silence whistleblowers, with some witnesses claiming physical attacks and even shootings after speaking out against the abuse. A BBC crew attempting to record footage of the church’s Lagos compound was fired at by the church’s security, indicating attempts to thwart external scrutiny.
- No Response from SCOAN: Despite reaching out to SCOAN with the allegations, the church did not respond. However, it denied previous claims against T.B. Joshua, stating that unfounded allegations against him were not new and that none of the previous claims were ever substantiated.
- Lack of Action by Authorities: Four British citizens who reported abuse to UK authorities after leaving SCOAN claim that no further action was taken. A British couple, providing eyewitness accounts and video evidence to the British High Commission in Nigeria in 2010, also allege no action was taken.
- SCOAN’s Continued Existence Under New Leadership: Following T.B. Joshua’s death in June 2021, his widow, Evelyn Joshua, now leads SCOAN. The church continues to thrive, and allegations of abuse have not hindered its operations, raising concerns about accountability and the need for a thorough investigation into T.B. Joshua’s actions.
- The BBC’s investigation raises profound questions about the conduct within SCOAN, demanding further scrutiny and attention to ensure justice for the alleged victims and accountability within the church.