In a shocking revelation, the late megachurch leader TB Joshua’s daughter has come forward to expose the years of torture and abuse she endured at the hands of her own father. The BBC investigation shed light on the dark and disturbing practices that took place at Joshua’s church, the Synagogue Church of All Nations (Scoan), with testimonies from more than 25 former disciples corroborating the allegations of sexual abuse and manipulation.
The story begins with Ajoke, who bravely reached out to the BBC as the first whistle-blower about the abuse she witnessed at her father’s church. She revealed how TB Joshua locked her up and subjected her to years of physical and psychological torment, leaving her homeless on the streets of Lagos. Ajoke’s account highlights the constant fear her father had of someone speaking up against him, which led to his extreme measures to control and silence his own daughter.
From an early age, Ajoke was raised by Evelyn, Joshua’s widow, and enjoyed a happy childhood until she was falsely labeled as her father’s illegitimate child. This accusation marked the beginning of her nightmare. She was forced to join a group of disciples who lived under strict rules and were manipulated to blindly obey TB Joshua’s commands. As a child, Ajoke’s refusal to conform to these rules resulted in brutal physical abuse, including beatings and public humiliation.
The abuse escalated to a horrifying level when Ajoke discovered firsthand accounts of sexual abuse by her father. She confronted TB Joshua, defiantly standing up to him and condemning his actions. This act of bravery led to a vicious backlash, with TB Joshua and other disciples physically assaulting her. She was then isolated within the church, subjected to social confinement known as “adaba,” and endured further physical and emotional abuse.
Eventually, Ajoke was expelled from the church at the age of 19, left homeless and alone on the streets of Lagos. Despite her traumatic experiences and the challenges she faced, she reached out to the BBC in 2019, sparking a comprehensive investigation into the abuse at Scoan. The BBC contacted Scoan, but the church denied the allegations against TB Joshua, claiming they were unsubstantiated.
Ajoke’s courageous account has shed light on the dark and manipulative practices that took place within TB Joshua’s church. Former disciples have praised her for standing up against him, as her actions played a significant role in their own doubts about their faith in TB Joshua. Her determination to tell the truth, even at the cost of losing her home and family, has been seen as heroic by those who have suffered under his influence.
This disturbing exposé serves as a reminder of the power that religious leaders can wield and the need for accountability and protection for vulnerable individuals within these institutions. It calls for a broader conversation about the measures that need to be taken to prevent such abuses from happening again and to support survivors in their healing process.
The impact of this news is far-reaching. It not only exposes the dark secrets of one religious leader but also raises questions about the broader issue of abuse within religious institutions. It calls for a reevaluation of blind faith and the importance of empowering individuals to speak up against abuses of power.
In society, this news highlights the urgent need for reforms and stricter regulations in religious organizations, ensuring that mechanisms are in place to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation and abuse. It also serves as a wake-up call for the public to be cautious and critical of influential figures, advocating for transparency and accountability.
As this story gains traction, it is vital to approach discussions and debates with sensitivity and respect for the survivors. It is crucial to create a safe and supportive environment for those who have experienced similar abuse to come forward and seek justice.
The TB Joshua scandal has once again exposed the dark underbelly of religious institutions and serves as a reminder that no individual is above reproach. It is an opportunity for society to reflect on the power dynamics at play and work towards a future where faith communities are held accountable for their actions, ensuring the safety and well-being of their followers.
