Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso, recently acquitted of 32 charges including rape, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking, was deported to Nigeria from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport on Sunday, according to local media reports. The 66-year-old pastor’s departure follows his rearrest on immigration charges and comes days after South African prosecutors announced plans to appeal his acquittal.
Omotoso, leader of the Jesus Dominion International (JDI) church based in Durban with branches in Nigeria and Israel, was acquitted in April 2025 by the Eastern Cape High Court in Gqeberha. Judge Irma Schoeman ruled that prosecutors failed to prove the case beyond reasonable doubt, citing mishandling by the state. The decision sparked widespread outrage across South Africa, with many criticizing the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for its handling of the eight-year trial.
On May 10, Omotoso was rearrested in East London for violating the Immigration Act after the Department of Home Affairs declared him a prohibited person due to an expired and allegedly fraudulent visa. The East London Magistrates Court granted him temporary reprieve on May 13, ruling he could not be detained beyond 48 hours without formal charges, leading to his release pending deportation proceedings.
Images broadcast by SABC and Newsroom Afrika showed Omotoso at OR Tambo Airport, dressed in a grey hoodie and sunglasses, speaking with an immigration official. A transport ministry official confirmed to AFP that Omotoso required no clearance from their department to leave the country.
The NPA announced on May 13 its intent to appeal the acquittal under Section 319 of the Criminal Procedure Act, focusing on questions of law. “The NPA believes there are reasonable prospects of a successful appeal despite the complexities involved,” the authority stated, adding that an internal investigation into the prosecution team’s conduct is underway, with a report expected in June 2025.
Omotoso’s deportation has divided public sentiment. Some South Africans expressed frustration, accusing him of evading justice, while his supporters, including members of the JDI church, celebrated his release and departure. The case continues to highlight challenges in addressing gender ”
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