Evangelist Omotosho Discharged of Rape Leaves South Africa

Nigerian televangelist, Timothy Omotoso, who was acquitted of raping young women from his church last month, has left South Africa.

The 66-year-old pastor, who heads the Jesus Dominion International (JDI) church, was to leave from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo Airport on Sunday.

The acquittal of Omotoso on 32 charges, including rape, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking, had sparked widespread outrage across South Africa, with many criticizing the judge’s decision and the handling of the case by prosecutors.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has since announced that it would appeal against the acquittal and investigate the team that handled the case.

Omotoso was seen at the airport wearing a grey hoodie and sunglasses, and appeared to be in high spirits as he prepared to leave the country. It is not clear what time his flight departed, but images broadcast showed him chatting to an immigration official before proceeding to the departure lounge.

The NPA had stated earlier in the week that it would appeal against Omotoso’s acquittal, citing “reasonable prospects of a successful appeal despite the complexities of the legal process.” The authority also announced that it would investigate the team that handled the case, amid allegations of mishandling and incompetence.

Omotoso’s departure from South Africa comes just days after he was rearrested on immigration charges, and the South African government announced that he was subject to deportation. However, a magistrates court ordered his release earlier this week, ruling that he could not be detained for more than 48 hours without being charged.

The JDI church, which has branches in Nigeria and Israel, according to the South African government, has been at the center of controversy in recent years, with allegations of sexual abuse and exploitation of young women by Omotoso and other church leaders. The church has denied all allegations, and Omotoso has maintained his innocence throughout the trial.

As Omotoso departs South Africa, many are left wondering what the future holds for the embattled televangelist and his church. While his acquittal and subsequent departure may be seen as a victory by some, others are determined to see justice served and are calling for further investigation and action. The case has sparked a national conversation about sexual abuse and exploitation in South Africa, and the need for greater accountability and protection for victims.