The British Broadcasting Corporation’s Africa Eye recently unveiled a three-part exposé on the late televangelist, Prophet Temitope Balogun Joshua (TB Joshua), sparking considerable discussion on social media platforms.
Titled “Disciples: The Cult of TB Joshua,” the extensive video, accessible on YouTube, presents testimonies from former disciples and church workers who level serious allegations against the deceased prophet. Notably, witnesses predominantly from the United States, the United Kingdom, Namibia, and South Africa, claim manipulation and physical abuse, narrating instances of being compelled to remain in proximity to TB Joshua for durations spanning up to 14 years.
The investigative report also delves into the tragic incident of the September 12, 2014 building collapse at the guest house of the Synagogue Church of All Nations, a property owned by Joshua. The collapse resulted in the loss of at least 116 lives, predominantly comprising foreigners.
In reaction to these revelations, numerous individuals on social media platforms expressed shock, advocating for a comprehensive investigation into the allegations.
On the platform formerly known as Twitter, now referred to as The X, the story gained significant traction, particularly in Nigeria and Ghana. A user with the handle @tahbryce remarked, “It’s a crazy world, there is much more than there is to the eye.”
Adding to the discourse, @benKEofficial opined, “Church should just be banned. Let everyone serve and praise their own God. We have a rotten people pretending to serve God.”
Expressing concern about the regulatory environment, @Tirus56131185 stated, “What is shocking is how many governments in Africa allow such fraudsters to operate.”
However, divergent perspectives on the matter surfaced among social media users, with some posing various questions about the exposé.
“The TB Joshua documentary was just a roller coaster ride for me. First I was like why will they wait for him to die before they drop it knowing he can’t defend himself? after the last episode, I’m just sitting here in tears. idk if it’s anger, disappointment, disbelief or pain” @gyaigyimii wrote on X.
The TB Joshua documentary was just a roller coaster ride for me. First I was like why will they wait for him to die before they drop it knowing he can’t defend himself. after the last episode I’m just sitting here in tears. idk if it’s anger, disappointment, disbelief or pain
— KALYJAY (@gyaigyimii) January 8, 2024
Renowned Nigerian televangelist TB Joshua took part in serial rape and abuse, #BBCAfricaEye has discovered.
Forced abortions and other atrocities are alleged by dozens of ex-followers of the charismatic preacher. https://t.co/Q0mLSmZCcA
— BBC News Africa (@BBCAfrica) January 8, 2024
Let a dead man rest in peace! If you have evidence of allegations levied against Prophet Joshua, come forward with it. We have been hearing these rumours for decades so it’s not new!
— Anthony Eri (@AnthonyC_Eri) January 8, 2024
Upon reaching out to the present leadership of the church, the BBC sought their response, receiving a concise statement that asserted, “Making unfounded allegations against Prophet TB Joshua is not a new occurrence. None of the allegations was ever substantiated.” Regrettably, the church did not offer specific commentary on the claims presented in the documentary.
