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Re Open Letter :to the BBC Regarding the Documentary on TB Joshua and the Synagogue of All Nations
Dear BBC,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I write to express my profound disappointment in the recently released documentary on Prophet TB Joshua and the Synagogue of All Nations. While I acknowledge the importance of investigative journalism in unveiling the truth, it is disheartening to witness the blatant misinformation and one-sided narrative presented in your production.
Before delving into the specifics of your documentary, it is essential to highlight the impact your platform carries. As a globally recognized media outlet, your responsibility to provide accurate, unbiased information is paramount. Unfortunately, your recent documentary fails to meet these standards.
The testimony of the two Nigerian former staffers and three British ladies served as the backbone of your documentary. It is crucial to note that disgruntled former members may harbor personal grievances that can taint their objectivity. By relying solely on their accounts, you have neglected a crucial element of responsible journalism – corroborating evidence. The absence of an attempt to verify the authenticity of their claims is a grave oversight that raises questions about the credibility of your investigation.
The central theme of the documentary revolves around the alleged premeditation of events at the Synagogue of All Nations. The claim that elaborate receptions for foreigners were orchestrated to create a false sense of heaven is unsubstantiated and lacks credibility. While it is important to scrutinize the practices of religious institutions, presenting speculative assumptions as facts undermines the very essence of journalism.
Furthermore, the portrayal of the disciples’ experience within the church is skewed. Labeling the environment as a military-like regimen oversimplifies the intricate dynamics of spiritual mentorship. It is essential to recognize that religious organizations often employ structures to foster discipline and commitment among their members. Such structures, when legal and consensual, contribute to the cohesion of religious communities.
The testimonies of Mr. Agomoh and his colleague Bisola are particularly dubious. Bisola’s narrative, including the absurd story of Prophet TB Joshua allegedly instructing boys to pee into the mouth of a sleeping disciple, lacks any semblance of credibility. The absence of substantiation and the sensational nature of such claims should have raised red flags during your editorial process.
As responsible consumers of media, it is crucial to question the motives behind the selection of sources and the manner in which information is presented. The financial implications of airing such a documentary cannot be overlooked. Your failure to address the potential bias stemming from the disgruntled sources and the sensational nature of their claims raises concerns about the integrity of your investigative process.
Moreover, the timing of the documentary, released less than 10 hours ago and already garnering almost 500,000 views, suggests a rush to sensationalize rather than an earnest pursuit of truth. The use of video effects, while potentially enhancing the visual appeal, should not be a substitute for a thorough and unbiased investigation.
It is disheartening to witness a media institution of your caliber contribute to the vilification of an individual who, by all accounts, devoted his life to helping millions. Prophet TB Joshua’s philanthropic work and humanitarian efforts have positively impacted countless lives. The selective nature of your documentary fails to provide a holistic view of the man and his contributions.
In conclusion, I implore you to reconsider the implications of your documentary on Prophet TB Joshua and the Synagogue of All Nations. A more rigorous and balanced investigation, taking into account the perspectives of various stakeholders, would contribute to a fair and objective portrayal of the situation. In the interest of journalistic integrity and ethical reporting, I urge you to pull down the video and rectify the errors in your coverage.
Let it be known that this response is not commissioned by the church. As an advocate for independent spiritual exploration, I believe in the importance of individuals seeking and knowing God for themselves. It is my hope that this open letter prompts a reflection on the standards and values that should guide your journalistic endeavors.
Sincerely,
Chidi Ekeh writes from Abuja FCT Nigeria. 8th January 2024
