Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso has left South Africa following his acquittal on charges of rape, human trafficking, and assault. The Eastern Cape High Court recently cleared Omotoso, who had spent eight years in custody awaiting trial.
Despite the verdict, South Africa’s National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is preparing to appeal the ruling and has launched an internal investigation into how the case was handled. Omotoso’s co-accused, Lusanda Solani and Zikiswa Sitho, were also acquitted but may face renewed charges if the appeal succeeds.
Omotoso was spotted at OR Tambo International Airport and was confirmed to be en route to Lagos, Nigeria. His departure came shortly after a court appearance over immigration issues, during which he was released.
South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs has since confirmed that Omotoso is banned from reentering the country for five years. After that period, any future application to return will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
The court’s decision has sparked backlash from rights groups who argue that justice was not served in the high-profile case.
