Nigerian televangelist and senior pastor of Jesus Dominion International based in Durban, South Africa, Timothy Omotoso, has been deported from South Africa after facing a lengthy legal battle that lasted eight years.
Omotoso was accused of crimes, including rape, racketeering, and human trafficking.
He was arrested on April 20, 2017, at Port Elizabeth International Airport, which sent shockwaves throughout South African society.
On April 2, 2025, the Eastern Cape High Court, acquitted Omotoso of all 32 charges due to procedural errors made by the prosecution.
However, just over a month later, on May 10, he was re-arrested by immigration authorities in East London.
Reports indicate that he agreed to be deported and boarded a flight to Lagos, expected to arrive by 8:30 pm on Sunday.
The Department of Home Affairs confirmed that he will be barred from re-entering South Africa for the next five years.
Read also: Timothy Omotoso found not guilty, faces deportations to Nigeria
Omotoso, who is also the founder of the Ancient of Days Broadcasting Network and an author, had been at the center of South Africa’s first high-profile rape trial aired live, a case that drew national attention amid the country’s ongoing struggle with high rates of sexual violence.
During the trial, a witness alleged that Omotoso had raped her when she was just 14, but the court found him not guilty, highlighting significant procedural failings by the prosecution.
The National Prosecuting Authority acknowledged mishandlings that plagued the case and noted the lengthy trial was a result of numerous legal applications made by Omotoso’s defense team.
His co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zikiswa Sitho, were also acquitted of all charges.
The high-profile nature of the case sparked significant public discourse about victims’ rights, judicial fairness, and the implications of broadcasting court proceedings on justice.
As of the latest updates, it remains unconfirmed whether Omotoso has successfully landed in Nigeria.
