- Nigerian pastor Tobi Adegboyega, based in the UK, has defended his preference for luxury fashion and lifestyle as a deliberate strategy to connect with the younger generation.
- The founder of SPAC Nation church, in an interview with the BBC, stated that his attire aims to inspire rather than alienate.
UK-based Nigerian pastor Tobi Adegboyega has defended his affinity for high-end fashion and extravagant living, asserting that it is a strategic approach to engage with the younger demographic.
In a recent interview with the BBC, the founder of SPAC Nation church articulated that his fashion choices are intended to inspire rather than alienate his audience.
“I put on what is right, what connects to the generation I’m speaking to, so they are not attracted to drug dealers,” Adegboyega stated, responding to critiques of his ostentatious lifestyle.
The charismatic preacher, frequently seen in designer apparel and accessories, indicated that his public image is aligned with his mission to connect with youth and guide them away from harmful choices.
Under his leadership, SPAC Nation has been recognized for its efforts in removing hundreds of knives from the streets of the UK and addressing gun violence.
Nonetheless, Adegboyega’s public image has faced scrutiny due to allegations of financial misconduct and immigration issues.
Reports indicate that he lost a legal battle to remain in the UK after exceeding the duration of his visitor’s visa, which he acquired upon his arrival in 2005.
Adegboyega attributed his failure to regularize his immigration status to an oversight.
“I lost track of time,” he confessed, noting that he believed his family was managing his immigration documentation.
Local reports also associate Adegboyega with a £1.87 million fraud concerning the misappropriation of church funds.
The pastor has strongly refuted these allegations, labeling them as grievances from “disgruntled members” of his congregation.
“How on earth do you run an organisation without disgruntled people?” he asked.
While a UK immigration tribunal has reportedly ruled in favor of his deportation, Pastor Adegboyega clarified that the matter is still under consideration.
“There is no deportation order, let me make that clear,” he stated.
