How Nigerian Pastor Acquitted Of Rape Was Deported From South Africa With 90 ‘Escorts’

Pastor Timothy Omotoso was among over 90 Nigerians deported from South Africa, following a crackdown on individuals declared undesirable or illegally residing.

Over 90 Nigerians were deported from South Africa in a recent operation, including controversial Nigerian preacher, Pastor Timothy Omotoso.

The mass deportation took place on Sunday, as South African authorities enforced immigration rules against individuals deemed to be in the country illegally.

Among those removed was Omotoso, who had recently been acquitted of serious charges including rape, sexual assault, and human trafficking. He was escorted by police and immigration officials to OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg before boarding a flight to Nigeria.

Omotoso, the founder of Jesus Dominion International, had earlier applied under Section 8(7) of the Immigration Act to lift his prohibited status. However, the request was rejected by the Minister of Home Affairs. According to a department spokesperson, Siya Qoza, “Upon his departure, Omotoso was still a prohibited person, and given that he was illegally in the country, he was issued with a notification as an undesirable person, meaning that he will not be able to return to the country for five years.”

Qoza added, “On expiry of that five-year ban, he will have to apply for his prohibition to be uplifted in terms of Section 29 of the Immigration Act.” He also emphasized the department’s commitment, stating, “The Department of Home Affairs continues to be guided by our unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law without fear or favour.”

Omotoso had been rearrested in East London shortly before his deportation due to immigration-related offenses, despite his legal victory.

The preacher’s acquittal attracted public criticism. Activists and legal observers questioned how a case that lasted eight years, involving allegations of gender-based violence, ended in a not-guilty verdict. Responding to these concerns, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, requested a full report from the National Prosecuting Authority. “Kubayi said her concern stemmed from the apparent shortcomings in the prosecution’s handling of the case, resulting in a significant setback in the pursuit of justice for victims of gender-based violence and related crimes,” she was quoted.

This deportation adds to a growing list of Nigerians expelled from South Africa in recent months. In February 2024, 97 Nigerians were deported, followed by another 90 in August, signaling a firm stance by South African immigration authorities.

Pastor Omotoso’s inclusion in this group marks a dramatic end to his legal battle and presence in South Africa, at least for the next five years.

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