The British government is set to deport popular Nigerian pastor Tobi Adegboyega following his loss in an immigration tribunal case. The ruling comes after investigations revealed financial misconduct linked to his church, SPAC Nation, which was shut down by UK authorities for failing to account for £1.87 million in funds and operating without transparency.

Adegboyega, who entered the UK on a visitor’s visa in 2005 and has lived unlawfully since, argued that deportation would violate his right to family life under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). His legal team highlighted his community work, describing him as a “charismatic” leader who positively impacted hundreds of young people. However, the tribunal dismissed these claims, citing evidence of financial mismanagement, allegations of exploitation within the church, and concerns over its cult-like practices.

The tribunal concluded that Adegboyega’s contributions did not outweigh the grounds for deportation, stating, “The decision to refuse leave to remain was wholly proportionate.” His appeal was denied, and he is now set to be returned to Nigeria.