Following a recent investigative documentary by the BBC shedding light on the late Prophet Temitope Babatunde Joshua, the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) confronts another setback with the suspension of its sole television channel, Emmanuel TV, from Digital Satellite Television (DStv).
MultiChoice owns and operates the Sub-Saharan African direct broadcast satellite service known as DStv in Randburg, South Africa.
In a notice issued by DStv, Emmanuel TV is set to be suspended starting January 17, as conveyed in the statement: “Dear viewer, please note that Emmanuel TV will exit on January 17, 2024. Thank you for watching.”
The BBC’s African Eye investigation unearthed disturbing revelations, including allegations of sexual crimes, against the late Nigerian pastor, who gained international acclaim for his evangelism, charity, and healing endeavours. Despite his celebrated public persona, the investigation suggests that TB Joshua may have led a double life.
Titled “Disciples: The Cult of TB Joshua,” the three-part BBC investigation presents firsthand accounts from former close associates, or “disciples,” from various countries, including Nigeria, Britain, Namibia, the US, South Africa, Ghana, and Germany.
T.B. Joshua created the Christian television network Emmanuel TV, which debuted on March 8, 2006, in Lagos, Nigeria. In the late 1990s, SCOAN gained global recognition through the distribution of video cassettes showcasing Joshua’s early ministry and reporting miracles.
Emmanuel TV swiftly became one of Africa’s most-watched and reputable television stations. However, since TB Joshua’s passing in June 2021, the channel has reportedly heavily relied on rebroadcasting old content, particularly featuring the late Prophet.
The suspension is expected to extend beyond DStv, with reports suggesting that Emmanuel TV will also cease airing on GOtv and other pay-TV services.
