Pastor Tobi Adegboyega, the founder of the Salvation Proclaimers Anointed Church (SPAC Nation), has publicly defended his financial situation during an immigration tribunal, asserting that he is “entirely supported by Mary.” Adegboyega explained that his wife, Mary (née Alade), who works for AON and earns £100,000 annually, fully supports their household. This statement came as part of his defense during a tribunal concerning his immigration status in the United Kingdom.
The tribunal was convened to address Adegboyega’s request to remain in the UK after his visitor’s visa expired in 2005. He chose to stay in the country and sought to remain on human rights grounds. This legal challenge has been a subject of public debate, especially given Adegboyega’s high-profile position within SPAC Nation.
During the proceedings, Adegboyega responded to accusations regarding his lifestyle, which includes wearing designer clothing and driving luxury cars. He explained that his apparent wealth was not due to personal indulgence but rather a deliberate effort to motivate the youth in his congregation. “I live with my partner, Mary Olubukola Alade, who earns £100,000 per year working for AON. I spend my time working for the church, for which I am unpaid. I am entirely supported by Mary,” Adegboyega stated, as quoted in a court ruling obtained by PUNCH.
The court also heard that Adegboyega had never taken any money from the church for his personal use. Despite his expensive lifestyle, he maintained that all of his possessions, including luxury items, had been paid for by his wife, Mary. “He has never taken a penny from the church,” the court ruling confirmed.
The pastor further justified his choice of extravagant clothing and lifestyle, stating that it was essential to show his congregation, particularly the youth, that there are legitimate avenues for financial success. “It is important for me to dress the way that I do because I need to inspire these young people – they need to understand that there are legitimate ways of making money, for instance through entrepreneurship,” he said.
Adegboyega also took the opportunity to highlight his personal sacrifices. Despite holding a first-class law degree from Nigeria, he explained that he had abandoned his legal career to focus on his religious mission. “I have a first-class law degree from Nigeria but I have ‘sacrificed’ my legal career to help those who cannot help themselves,” he explained to the tribunal.
The case has brought SPAC Nation back into the public spotlight, where the church has been under scrutiny for various allegations, including financial misconduct and exploitation of its members. However, Adegboyega’s supporters argue that he has been a positive force in the community, with many praising his work in empowering young people.
Throughout the tribunal, Adegboyega remained firm in his position, denying any wrongdoing. In response to questions about his potential deportation, he expressed his resolve to remain in the UK, regardless of the tribunal’s decision. “No level of persecution will deter me,” he declared on Thursday.
