The BBC claims this televangelist was a cult leader. Are they right?

Last week the BBC claimed the late Nigerian church leader TB Joshua raped and tortured his followers. Speaking to Premier, a woman named Anneka also testified to experiencing sexual abuse, brainwashing and mind reform while staying at Joshua’s notorious compound. Having watched the BBC’s three part documentary Disciples, Adesanya Adewusi says the revelations should serve as a reminder to Christians to test everything

In recent days, allegations of manipulation, abusive control, rape and torture of his followers have been made against the now-deceased pastor and televangelist, TB Joshua. Former members, employees and even his own daughter have come out and accused Joshua of dubious activities which occurred over a space of 20 years.

Temitope Balogun Joshua was the head of the Synagogue of All Nations (SCOAN) church in Lagos, Nigeria. The Church was always perceived as operating on the very edges of mainstream Christianity in Nigeria, nevertheless, Joshua had considerable influence and appeal, exemplified by his six million followers on Facebook. 

Founded in 1987, SCOAN enjoyed the global appeal one would normally associate with Western megachurches. SCOAN members often travelled from other African countries and the UK, in order to catch a glimpse of reported miracles and healings.