Ekurhuleni, South Africa – Controversial televangelist Timothy Omotoso has officially departed South Africa for good, following months of legal battles and public outcry. Omotoso was deported on 18 May 2025, departing from OR Tambo International Airport in Ekurhuleni, according to a video shared by Newzroom Afrika.
The Nigerian-born pastor, who was recently acquitted of serious charges including rape and kidnapping, reportedly volunteered to leave the country rather than continue challenging a declaration by the Department of Home Affairs that deemed him an illegal resident.
[BREAKING NEWS] Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso arrives at OR Tambo International Airport to board a plane to his home country. #Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/AbNiYe6nMs
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) May 18, 2025A Tumultuous Legal Journey
Omotoso’s exit from South Africa comes just a month after the Gqeberha High Court found him not guilty, stating the state failed to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. Despite the verdict, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has since announced its intention to appeal the acquittal.
Shortly after his release, the Department of Home Affairs declared him an illegal resident, prompting Omotoso to file an urgent application to overturn the declaration. The East London Magistrates Court temporarily blocked his deportation until the matter could be heard in court.
However, rather than prolong the legal fight, Omotoso purchased his own ticket and left voluntarily, effectively closing a controversial chapter in his South African residency.
Public Reactions and Political Weigh-In
The saga has drawn sharp reactions across South Africa:
- A KwaZulu-Natal member of Omotoso’s church posted a video condemning the authorities for rearresting him on 10 May, just days before his court appearance on 12 May.
- Members of his congregation celebrated his release, while social media buzzed with polarized views.
- The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) also weighed in on the matter, criticizing the handling of his case by the justice system and Home Affairs.
What You Need to Know:
- Omotoso was declared an illegal resident by Home Affairs after his acquittal.
- He was arrested again on 10 May and appeared before the East London Magistrates Court on 12 May.
- His legal team filed an urgent application to overturn the Home Affairs decision.
- Ultimately, Omotoso voluntarily departed South Africa on 18 May 2025 for Nigeria.
- The NPA still plans to appeal his acquittal, but it remains unclear how that will proceed following his departure.
Conclusion:
While Omotoso’s departure may mark the end of his physical presence in South Africa, the legal and political fallout continues, with the NPA’s appeal pending and public discourse far from over. Whether his exit brings closure or further contention remains to be seen.
