A comprehensive investigation by the BBC has revealed disturbing allegations of widespread abuse and torture involving the late TB Joshua, the founder of one of the world’s largest Christian evangelical churches, the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN).

The investigation spans nearly two decades and involves accounts from numerous ex-members, including five British nationals, who have detailed atrocities such as rape, forced abortions, physical violence, and manipulation within the secretive compound in Lagos, Nigeria, where Joshua led the church until his death in 2021.

Despite repeated attempts to reach out for comment, SCOAN did not respond directly to these allegations but has previously refuted similar claims.

The BBC’s two-year investigation produced a series of findings:

• Multiple eyewitness accounts of physical violence and torture, including instances of child abuse, chaining, and whipping.
• Several women alleging repeated sexual assaults and rapes by Joshua within the compound, resulting in multiple forced abortions.
• Revelations of falsified “miracle healings” broadcast to millions worldwide.

One victim, identified as Rae, recounted her 12-year ordeal within the church, describing sexual assault, solitary confinement, and attempted suicide due to the severity of the abuse.

The church, known for its global following and television channel, Emmanuel TV, hosted tens of thousands of visitors and housed over 150 disciples in the compound. Over 25 former disciples from various countries corroborated similar experiences, some dating back to 2019, expressing the cult-like atmosphere they endured.

Another victim, Jessica Kaimu, disclosed enduring over five years of abuse, including five forced abortions, characterized as perilous “backdoor” medical treatments.

Despite Joshua’s celebrated status in Africa and his associations with political figures and celebrities, controversies arose during his lifetime, notably the 2014 collapse of a church guesthouse that claimed 116 lives.

The BBC’s investigation, conducted in collaboration with openDemocracy, marked the first time multiple ex-insiders spoke on record, citing years of attempted but stifled exposure.

Some witnesses claimed physical attacks and threats after attempting to voice their experiences. The BBC crew, seeking footage of the Lagos compound in 2022, encountered gunfire and detention by church security.

Several British citizens reported the abuse to UK authorities upon fleeing the church, yet they assert no meaningful action was taken. A British couple also sent detailed accounts and video evidence of their ordeal to the British High Commission in Nigeria in 2010, alleging sexual assault and violence, but claim their pleas were unanswered.

SCOAN, presently led by Joshua’s widow, Evelyn, continues to operate without direct investigation into the alleged abuses, prompting calls for further scrutiny by former members like Anneka, who emphasizes the necessity of uncovering the extent of Joshua’s actions.