Breaking: Lagos Government Seals Off Synagogue Church of All Nations

Church Ordered to Cease Operations

Lagos, Nigeria - June 29, 2023

The Lagos State Government has ordered the closure of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) in Ikotun-Egbe, Lagos. The order was given on June 29, 2023, and the church has been instructed to cease operations immediately.

The closure comes after investigations by the BBC Africa Eye, an investigative journalism program, uncovered allegations of exploitation and mistreatment of church members. The BBC's investigation is the first time insiders from TB Joshua's Synagogue Church of All Nations Scoan in Lagos have spoken out about their experiences.

The allegations include claims of physical and emotional abuse, financial exploitation, and questionable healing practices. The BBC also reported that former church members were unable to leave the church without facing threats and intimidation.

The Lagos State Government has said that the closure is temporary and that SCOAN will be allowed to reopen once it has undergone proper investigations and made necessary changes to its operations.

SCOAN is a Christian megachurch founded by Prophet Temitope Balogun Joshua, also known as TB Joshua. The church has a large following in Nigeria and around the world. TB Joshua is known for his charismatic preaching and claims of performing miracles.

The closure of SCOAN has come as a shock to many of its followers. The church has been a major tourist attraction in Lagos, and its closure is expected to have a significant economic impact on the city.