South Africa aims to appeal the acquittal of Timothy Omotoso, a high-profile televangelist, amid allegations of serious sexual offenses against young church members, prompting potential extradition efforts.
South Africa to Challenge Acquittal of Nigerian Pastor Timothy Omotoso
South Africa to Challenge Acquittal of Nigerian Pastor Timothy Omotoso
Legal proceedings underway against pastor acquitted of multiple rape charges after departure to Nigeria.
South African authorities are determined to pursue legal action against Nigerian pastor Timothy Omotoso, who was acquitted of rape charges last month. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) announced it will appeal the verdict despite Omotoso's departure to Nigeria. The pastor, leader of the Jesus Dominion International Church, faced 32 counts of sexual assault linked to young women in Port Elizabeth, and he denied all allegations.
Local media reported that Omotoso was caught on camera at OR Tambo International Airport, dressed in a hoodie and dark sunglasses, as he left the country. His legal troubles began in 2017 when he was arrested while attempting to exit South Africa. Among his accusers was a woman claiming to have been raped by him when she was just 14 years old.
In an official statement, South African prosecutors acknowledged that there were no legal barriers preventing Omotoso from leaving the country following his acquittal. Nevertheless, they indicated that if the appeal is successful, they would seek his extradition, referencing South Africa's existing extradition treaty with Nigeria.
After his legal acquittal in April, Omotoso also faced complications regarding his immigration status, with the Department of Home Affairs asserting that he was present in South Africa illegally. He might be subject to a five-year ban from returning. Reportedly, Omotoso voluntarily departed from the country after the trial, which garnered significant attention as it marked the first time a high-profile rape case was broadcast live in South Africa.
The case continues to evoke discussions about the challenges faced by survivors of sexual assault in the country, aided by the revelations of Omotoso's situation.
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