Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso left South Africa on Sunday, May 18, after being acquitted of rape, human trafficking, and sexual exploitation charges last month.
Omotoso, 66, was seen at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, dressed in a grey hoodie and sunglasses. He spoke briefly with immigration officials before his departure to Nigeria, according to local media including SABC and Newsroom Afrika.
Omotoso spent eight years in jail before being cleared of 32 serious charges, including rape and trafficking, linked to young women from his Jesus Dominion International (JDI) church.
The judge ruled that the prosecution mishandled the case, leading to the acquittal. This sparked public outrage in South Africa, with many questioning the justice system’s handling of sexual violence cases.
State to Appeal Verdict and Investigate Prosecutors
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) announced it will appeal the rape acquittal and also investigate the original prosecution team.
“The NPA believes there are reasonable prospects of a successful appeal despite the legal complexities,” a spokesperson said.
Omotoso was rearrested on May 10 for immigration violations and was facing possible deportation. However, a magistrate ruled that he could not be held for over 48 hours without formal charges and ordered his release.
The transport ministry confirmed he was free to leave the country and did not need special clearance.
Who Is Timothy Omotoso?
Omotoso is the leader of Jesus Dominion International (JDI), a church based in Durban, South Africa. The church also has branches in Nigeria and Israel, according to South African officials.
He became a controversial figure after several women accused him of abusing his position to exploit them.
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