TB Joshua; In response to a recent BBC documentary shedding light on Pastor Temitope Joshua of the Synagogue Church of All Nations, Debo Akinyemi, a pastor from the Redeemed Christian Church of God, has come forward with his personal experiences while working with the late pastor.
Akinyemi, in an article published by ChurchTimes Nigeria, delves into his interactions with Temitope Joshua during his time as a journalist, presenting a perspective that adds to the ongoing debate surrounding the controversial figure.
Ambiguous Persona: A Former Colleague’s Perspective
Having worked closely with TB Joshua during the late ’90s, when the pastor was still establishing himself as an upcoming church owner, Akinyemi found it challenging to discern the true nature of the man. He suggests that outward appearances could be deceptive, emphasizing the need to go beyond surface impressions.
The Exclusive Revelation: A Startling Turn of Events
Later, when Akinyemi encountered Temitope Joshua again in a more significant role with The Exclusive, a weekly newspaper allegedly owned by the pastor, he began to unravel unsettling aspects of the pastor’s leadership. Despite not finding TB Joshua’s name on the official management list, Akinyemi claims the pastor exerted significant control over the publication.
Nocturnal Meetings and Unusual Generosity
Akinyemi paints a picture of TB Joshua as a night owl, summoning senior editorial staff for late-night meetings that often yielded little substance. Despite the peculiar timing, the pastor would lavish the team with extravagant meals. Akinyemi also discloses receiving generous financial envelopes at each meeting, irrespective of the relevance or significance of the discussions.
Discipleship and Regulated Lives
As Akinyemi delves into the inner workings of TB Joshua’s church, he highlights the pastor’s large flock of disciples. These individuals, predominantly young and attractive, were allegedly forbidden from holding secular jobs and were subject to a highly regulated lifestyle. Akinyemi suggests that Temitope Joshua’s disciples lived in fear of the pastor and appeared bound by an oath of secrecy.
Marriage Rituals and Unconventional Practices
Among the startling revelations is TB Joshua’s alleged involvement in arranging partner swaps among married couples, purportedly as a ritual to facilitate childbearing. Akinyemi claims that couples, struggling with infertility, were matched with new partners, leading to unusual family dynamics within the congregation.
Conclusion: A Perspective Marked by Suspicion
While Akinyemi refrains from outright vilification, he expresses skepticism about TB Joshua’s character, citing instances of alleged demonic anger and unsettling practices within the church. The former associate concludes by emphasizing the need to critically evaluate spiritual leaders, urging readers to put TB Joshua’s spirit to the test