YouTube Bans TB Joshua’s Synagogue Channel, Emmanuel TV Leaves DStv and GOtv
YouTube, an American social media platform, has taken down the main channel of the Synagogue Church of All Nation (SCOAN) from its platform. The channel, known as Emmanuel TV, was used to broadcast the religious activities of the church and its founder, TB Joshua.
The removal of the channel comes amid sexual and assault allegations against the late TB Joshua, who died on June 5, 2021. The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) conducted a historic investigation into the late preacher and his church, featuring interviews with at least 30 alleged former members and workers of the Synagogue.
The documentary, which sparked intense online debates and reactions, accused TB Joshua of sexual misconduct, abuse, and manipulation. YouTube said the channel was removed for violating its hate speech policies, which prohibit harassment against survivors of sexual violence.
In a related development, Emmanuel TV, owned by SCOAN, has also announced its withdrawal from MultiChoice platforms, namely DStv and GOtv. Naija News reports that TB Joshua’s church also pulled out its TV channel from other pay-TV services.
MultiChoice confirmed the development, stating that Emmanuel TV will no longer be available on DStv and GOtv packages from January 17, 2024. Emmanuel TV was founded by TB Joshua in 2006 and became one of the most popular and subscribed Christian ministry YouTube channels in the world.
