THE recent investigative report by BBC Africa Eye shedding light on alleged misconduct and abuse within a secretive Lagos compound linked to the late Nigerian pastor TB Joshua has ignited a wave of reactions across social media.
Social media users, stunned by the revelations, took to their platforms to express a mix of shock, scepticism, and introspection in response to the over-150-minute-long exposé titled Disciples: The Cult of TB Joshua.
@ur_bwoi_towa drew parallels between the accounts shared in the documentary and certain campus ministries, raising concerns about potential similarities in cult-like behaviours. ‘Few minutes into the TB Joshua documentary and I’ve already noticed some similarities in some campus ministries/cults,’ @ur_bwoi_towa tweeted.
Meanwhile, @snort_randy reminisced about tuning into EmmanuelTV for entertainment, highlighting how even as a young viewer, they saw through the perceived theatrics, questioning the credibility of the pastor’s actions. ‘Me and my brothers would only tune in to EmmanuelTV whenever we needed a good laugh. We could still see through the gimmicks as young as we were; reason why I find it absurd how adults fell for his theatrics. Used to drive my mom nuts every time we laughed.’
Challenging the impact of a single documentary lacking substantial evidence, @WondaDell tweeted: ‘Y’all think a single documentary with no valid evidence but just accusations can eradicate whatever God has used TB Joshua to do for the world. It’s not like we’re in a court where judges rule in accordance to whatever is been said by a witness.’
On the other hand, YouTube user @DebelAjiboye shared their experience of watching the entire documentary, joining the growing chorus of individuals engaging with the significant revelations brought to light. ‘Knowing some of those disciples personally, the shock I’m experiencing is beyond words. I found myself repeatedly pausing the video, uttering a stunned “wow” at each revelation.’
Another user, @emmanymatthew2539, commented: ‘I remember when I first watched this man on TV- NTA Ibadan was in 1992/93 on one Saturday. I was less than 8 years then. My grandma watched him on TV and within five minutes, she said let’s change the channel to BCOS this man is not from God. I said how, but he’s performing miracles. And her response still resonates in my memory till date — “Beware of false Prophets”, Matthew 7:15.’
@theowalker5753 wrote: “Even in grave prophet TB Joshua remains a man sent from heaven. His teachings have inspired me till this day. So all these fake schemes from y’all can’t take that away. It’s going to be the same message and doctrines I will pass on to my generations to come. Thank you and God bless you. God is our judge.’
The report also delves into the tragic 2014 collapse of a church guest house that claimed 116 lives, raising further questions about the practices and authenticity of ‘miracle healings’ broadcasted to a global audience.
The polarising responses indicate a profound impact on perceptions surrounding TB Joshua’s legacy and the practices within his organisation. The investigation serves as a potent catalyst for discussions regarding accountability and scrutiny of influential figures, particularly within the realm of faith and spirituality.