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On 18 May 2025, Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso departed South Africa for Nigeria, concluding a protracted legal saga that spanned nearly seven years. Omotoso, founder of the Jesus Dominion International Church, was acquitted earlier this month by the Eastern Cape High Court on 32 charges, including rape, human trafficking, and racketeering.
The court’s decision was based on the prosecution’s failure to present sufficient evidence, despite testimonies from multiple women alleging abuse. Following his acquittal, Omotoso was rearrested on 10 May for immigration violations. However, the East London Magistrates Court ordered his release, citing the Department of Home Affairs’ failure to charge him within the mandated 48-hour period.
[BREAKING NEWS] Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso arrives at OR Tambo International Airport to board a plane to his home country. #Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/AbNiYe6nMs
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) May 18, 2025
Omotoso’s departure was facilitated by the Department of Home Affairs, which had declared him an undesirable person, effectively barring his return to South Africa for five years. Despite his exit, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has announced plans to appeal the acquittal, citing reasonable prospects of success.
