Nigerian Pastor Omotoso Leaves South Africa After Acquittal in Rape Case

Nigerian televangelist, Timothy Omotoso, who was recently acquitted of multiple rape and human trafficking charges, was set to depart South Africa on Sunday amid public outcry and renewed legal scrutiny.

Local media outlets, including SABC and Newsroom Afrika, reported that the 66-year-old pastor was seen at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport wearing a grey hoodie and sunglasses as he interacted with immigration officials ahead of his departure to Nigeria. It was not immediately clear what time his flight was scheduled to leave.

Omotoso, who heads the Jesus Dominion International (JDI) church based in Durban, South Africa, had spent eight years in jail facing 32 charges — including rape, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking — before being acquitted last month. The court’s decision sparked widespread outrage, with critics accusing prosecutors of mishandling the high-profile case.

Just days after the ruling, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) announced plans to appeal the acquittal and investigate the prosecution team involved. “The NPA takes the view that there are reasonable prospects of a successful appeal despite the complexities of the legal process,” the authority stated.

Omotoso was rearrested on May 10 on immigration-related charges and was expected to be deported. However, a magistrates court ruled this week that he could not be held for more than 48 hours without formal charges, leading to his release.

While Omotoso prepares to return to Nigeria, the South African government confirmed he was no longer required to obtain additional clearance to exit the country. The controversial case, which captivated national attention, remains far from over as legal proceedings are set to resume with an appeal.