Controversial Nigerian televangelist, Pastor Timothy Omotoso, has been deported from South Africa after spending nearly a decade in the country’s legal system facing serious criminal allegations, including rape and human trafficking. His departure comes just days after South African prosecutors vowed to appeal his recent acquittal and reopen the high-profile case that has captured the attention of both local and international media.
Omotoso, 66, who heads the Jesus Dominion International (JDI) church based in Durban, was seen at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport on Sunday. Wearing a grey hoodie and dark sunglasses, he was escorted by immigration officials as he prepared to board a flight back to Nigeria.
Though the exact time of his departure was not publicly disclosed, South African transport authorities confirmed that Omotoso was free to leave the country without requiring special clearance, having recently been ordered released from detention by a magistrate court.
Eight Years Behind Bars Before Acquittal
Omotoso’s legal troubles began in 2017 when he was arrested and charged with multiple counts of rape, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking. The charges stemmed from allegations that he had abused young female members of his church under the guise of religious mentorship.
He was held in custody throughout the legal process, spending a staggering eight years behind bars awaiting the conclusion of his trial — a length of detention that sparked both outrage and sympathy across South Africa.
Last month, the High Court in Port Elizabeth acquitted Omotoso of 32 criminal charges, citing what the judge described as procedural failures by the prosecution. The decision sparked a national outcry, particularly among women’s rights groups and the families of alleged victims, many of whom had campaigned relentlessly for justice.
Public Backlash and Appeal
Following the verdict, South Africa’s National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) announced that it would challenge the acquittal. In a statement, the agency said there were “reasonable prospects of a successful appeal,” despite what it acknowledged as the complex nature of the case.
The NPA also indicated that it would be investigating the original prosecuting team to determine whether the mishandling of the case was due to negligence, incompetence, or other factors.
“The National Prosecuting Authority remains committed to ensuring justice for all victims of sexual crimes,” the statement read.
While the appeal process unfolds, legal analysts say it is possible that Omotoso could be extradited back to South Africa if the appeal succeeds and a retrial is ordered — although such proceedings could take years to materialize.
Immigration Troubles Add to Legal Drama
Though Omotoso had been acquitted on criminal charges, he was re-arrested on May 10, 2025, this time on immigration-related grounds. South African authorities accused him of overstaying his visa and violating the terms of his residency.
He was briefly held in detention pending deportation. However, earlier this week, a magistrate ruled that his continued detention without a formal charge was unlawful, ordering his immediate release. That ruling cleared the way for his return to Nigeria, where he may now attempt to rebuild his image and religious career.
A Polarising Figure in the Pulpit
Omotoso, originally from Nigeria, rose to fame as the founder and spiritual leader of the Jesus Dominion International (JDI) church, which claims branches in both Nigeria and Israel. The JDI’s main headquarters is located in Durban, a coastal city on South Africa’s east coast.
Known for his dramatic preaching style, healing crusades, and luxury lifestyle, Omotoso cultivated a large following among Pentecostal Christians. However, critics say his ministry operated more like a cult, with tight control over female members and strict rules for those living in church-controlled residences.
Allegations first surfaced in 2017 when a group of former church members came forward with disturbing stories of abuse, exploitation, and manipulation. Their testimonies helped form the basis of the charges filed against him by the South African government.
Several alleged victims testified in court, recounting harrowing experiences of being lured into the church under the promise of spiritual guidance and then sexually abused by the pastor.
Despite their bravery, the case ultimately collapsed under the weight of legal technicalities, prompting fresh calls for reforms in South Africa’s prosecution and witness protection systems.
