Pastor Tobi Adegboyega Explains Lavish Lifestyle Amid Deportation Ruling
Embattled Nigerian pastor and founder of the Salvation Proclaimers Anointed Church (SPAC Nation), Tobi Adegboyega, has defended his luxurious lifestyle amidst an ongoing deportation ruling in the United Kingdom.
The UK’s immigration upper tribunal recently ruled that the 44-year-old pastor should be deported, citing his overstayed visitor’s visa, which expired after his arrival in the UK in 2005. Adegboyega had sought to remain in the country on human rights grounds.
Defense of Extravagance
Addressing concerns about his opulent lifestyle during the tribunal, Adegboyega explained that his wife, Mary Olubukola Alade, who earns £100,000 annually working for the insurance firm AON, funds his expenses. He stated that his lifestyle serves as an inspiration to young people, the primary audience of his ministry, encouraging them to pursue legitimate ways of making money.
The controversial pastor told the court:
“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. I have a first-class law degree from Nigeria but have ‘sacrificed’ my legal career to help those who cannot help themselves.”
The tribunal also heard:
“People have pointed to the fact that he wears designer clothing and drives expensive cars. He was adamant that all his possessions were paid for by Mary. He has never taken a penny from the church. He believes it is important to dress the way he does to inspire young people, showing them that legitimate means, such as entrepreneurship, can lead to success.”
Reaction to Deportation Ruling
Responding to the ruling, Adegboyega dismissed the deportation claims and affirmed his resilience despite numerous challenges.
“I’m right here at home, no cause for alarm. Naturally, I dismiss anything that suggests retrogression. Every Nigerian should be proud of me. Living in the UK, a city known for pulling people down, I have survived all sorts of challenges. This matter they’re propagating is the smallest of them.
“I love London, it’s my city, and nobody can do anything. Of all the people of colour you know here—pastors and leaders—I have survived everything. I’m here at home, and nobody should panic for me. I have succeeded despite all odds and remain someone to look up to. Nothing has changed, and nothing will.”