The Johannesburg High Court has acquitted Nigerian televangelist Pastor Tim Omotosho of all charges including rape, human trafficking, and sexual assault following a two-year legal battle.
The presiding Judge, Thandiwe Mlambo ruled the prosecution failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt allegations brought by three women from Omotosho’s Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry.
The 54-year-old pastor wept openly as the not-guilty verdict was delivered, ending a case that had drawn international attention to South Africa’s handling of foreign religious leaders.
The trial had revealed troubling details about the inner workings of transnational Pentecostal ministries, though ultimately insufficient for conviction.
Prosecutors even alleged Omotosho lured vulnerable women from Nigeria to Johannesburg under pretenses of spiritual counseling, then sexually exploited them between 2018-2021. Defense attorney Piet du Plessis successfully argued the accusers’ testimonies contained inconsistencies, while text messages showed ongoing consensual relationships. “This was a witch hunt against African spiritual leaders,” du Plessis told reporters outside the Sandton courthouse.
How the Public Reacted
The verdict sparked immediate controversy across Southern Africa. The South African Council of Churches expressed relief, stating the case had fueled xenophobic sentiments against Nigerian clergy.
Conversely, Women and Men Against Child Abuse criticized the judgment, noting 87% of sexual assault cases in Gauteng province result in acquittals.
“This reinforces why survivors hesitate to come forward,” said spokesperson Ntsiki Mkhize. Omotosho’s 50,000-member congregation celebrated with all-night prayer vigils in both Johannesburg and Lagos.
New Legal Precedent Set for Foreign Religious Workers
Legal analysts highlight the case established important precedents regarding jurisdiction over visiting preachers. South Africa’s Immigration Act now faces scrutiny after revelations Omotosho entered on a business visa while conducting religious work.
The Nigerian Pentecostal Fellowship announced new guidelines for member churches operating abroad, including mandatory background checks. Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi confirmed forthcoming visa policy changes targeting “religious tourism” abuses.
Acquitted Pastor Vows to Continue Ministry
A visibly emotional Omotosho pledged to expand his deliverance ministry despite the ordeal. “God has vindicated me to preach louder against spiritual witchcraft,” he declared outside court, announcing plans for a 100,000-seat “Mercy Dome” in Lagos.
Critics note twelve similar allegations against Omotosho remain under investigation in Nigeria’s Edo State. The South African National Prosecuting Authority hasn’t ruled out appealing the verdict, with spokesperson Phindi Louw stating “we respect but disagree with the court’s interpretation of the evidence.”
