Pastor Timothy Omotoso’s Trial in South Africa: A Legal Saga of Allegations, Acquittals, and Rearrests
Pastor Timothy Omotoso, a prominent Nigerian televangelist and founder of Jesus Dominion International (JDI), has been embroiled in a complex legal battle in South Africa, involving serious allegations of rape, human trafficking, and racketeering. His trial has captured international attention due to the nature of the charges and the high-profile individuals involved. Here’s an in-depth look at the timeline of events surrounding Pastor Omotoso’s trial, acquittal, and rearrest.
The Charges: A Shocking Allegation of Abuse and Exploitation
In 2017, Pastor Omotoso was arrested by the Hawks, South Africa’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, at Port Elizabeth International Airport. He was facing 32 charges, including rape, human trafficking, and racketeering. The allegations centered around his recruitment of young women, some as young as 14, under the guise of spiritual mentorship within his church. These women were allegedly exploited for sexual abuse, which led to widespread public outcry.
One of the most poignant moments in the trial came when Cheryl Zondi, a key witness, testified in 2018 about being sexually assaulted by Omotoso at the age of 14. Her testimony, broadcasted live across South Africa, was a significant turning point, as it highlighted the deep abuses alleged by many victims.
Omotoso’s Acquittal: A Controversial Legal Outcome
After nearly eight years in custody, on April 2, 2025, Pastor Omotoso was acquitted by Judge Irma Schoeman at the Eastern Cape High Court in Gqeberha. The judge ruled that the prosecution failed to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt, citing shortcomings in the cross-examination and mishandling of key evidence.
Despite acknowledging weaknesses in the defense’s case, the court concluded that the state did not present enough compelling evidence to convict Omotoso on the charges of abuse and trafficking. The acquittal has sparked mixed reactions across South Africa: while some of his supporters celebrated the ruling, victims’ advocates and human rights groups raised concerns about the quality of the prosecution and its impact on future abuse cases.
Public Outcry and Legal Repercussions
Following the acquittal, the South African Justice Committee voiced concern over the trial’s handling, with many calling for a retrial or further investigation into Omotoso’s alleged actions. Activists have been vocal in demanding that the voices of the victims be heard and that justice be pursued through other legal avenues, despite the court’s decision.
Pastor Omotoso’s Rearrest: Immigration Violations
In a new twist to the ongoing saga, Pastor Omotoso was rearrested on May 10, 2025, in East London, South Africa, under charges related to the Immigration Act. The South African Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola confirmed that Omotoso would face charges related to his immigration status and is scheduled for a court appearance on May 12, 2025.
This rearrest came just weeks after his acquittal, highlighting the ongoing legal complexities surrounding his case and indicating that his legal battles are far from over.
The National Prosecuting Authority’s Next Steps
Despite the acquittal, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has stated that it is exploring all legal options to ensure justice is served for the victims. This includes considering civil actions or pursuing other criminal charges in relation to Omotoso’s alleged misconduct. The authorities are committed to exploring all avenues to seek justice for the victims and hold Omotoso accountable for any wrongdoing.
Conclusion: The Ongoing Struggle for Justice
The trial of Pastor Timothy Omotoso is far from over, with the recent rearrest signaling that the case is still developing. While the acquittal on the original charges has disappointed many, there remains hope among the victims and their supporters that justice will ultimately prevail. The public’s attention remains focused on Omotoso’s future legal battles and the potential for further charges related to his actions.
For more updates on this evolving story, stay tuned to CfaithToday as we continue to cover developments in this high-profile case.
