South Africa to Appeal Acquittal of Nigerian Pastor in Rape Case

By Chinasaokwu Helen Okoro

Jesus Dominion International Church Leader Faces Continued Legal Action in South Africa

South African authorities have confirmed they will proceed with legal actions against Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso, despite his recent acquittal on rape charges and his subsequent departure from the country.

Omotoso, founder of Jesus Dominion International Church—which reportedly has branches in Nigeria, the UK, France, Israel, and across South Africa—was previously accused of sexually assaulting young female congregants in Port Elizabeth. He denied all 32 charges brought against him.

Although Omotoso was acquitted in April, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) announced it will appeal the ruling. The NPA stated that Omotoso’s physical presence in South Africa is not required for the appeal process.

Following his acquittal, South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs confirmed that Omotoso had returned to Nigeria via OR Tambo International Airport. Public broadcaster SABC filmed him at the airport, wearing a hoodie and dark sunglasses.

Omotoso was initially arrested in 2017 while allegedly attempting to flee the country. One of his accusers claimed she was raped by him at the age of 14.

In a public statement, South African prosecutors acknowledged that there were “no legal grounds” to prevent Omotoso