By Gite Igiehon
Society whole Editor
Nigerian televangelist Pastor Timothy Omotoso, leader of the Jesus Dominion International (JDI) Church, was acquitted on April 2, 2025, by the Eastern Cape High Court in Gqeberha, South Africa. He, along with his co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zikiswa Sitho, faced 32 charges, including rape, human trafficking, sexual assault, and racketeering. The court ruled that the prosecution failed to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt, leading to their acquittal.
The trial, which began after their arrest in April 2017, spanned nearly eight years and was marked by numerous delays, including witness withdrawals and legal challenges. Despite the gravity of the allegations, the court found that the evidence presented was insufficient for conviction. Following the acquittal, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) expressed its intention to review the judgment and consider possible legal avenues.
Pastor Omotoso’s legal team has indicated plans to address his immigration status in South Africa, as he had previously been declared a prohibited immigrant by the Department of Home Affairs.
The case has drawn significant public attention, highlighting issues related to religious authority and accountability within faith-based institutions.
