Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso and two co-defendants have been cleared of all criminal charges following an exhaustive eight-year legal proceeding.
The Eastern Cape High Court in Gqeberha delivered the verdict that concluded one of South Africa’s most closely watched cases involving allegations of sexual misconduct and human trafficking.
Judicial Criticizes Prosecution’s Case
During her ruling, presiding Judge Irma Schoeman delivered scathing commentary about the state’s handling of the prosecution. The court found that inadequate cross-examination techniques and failure to properly challenge defence testimony ultimately undermined the case against the defendants.
“When the prosecution fails to effectively cross-examine an accused party, their testimony effectively stands uncontested,” Judge Schoeman stated in her written opinion. “This deficiency in the state’s approach created reasonable doubt where none might have otherwise existed.”
The judgment noted that while the court found specific defence explanations improbable, the prosecution’s shortcomings prevented rejecting these accounts as impossible. This technical legal distinction proved decisive in the outcome.
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Background of the Controversial Case
The allegations against Omotoso first surfaced in 2017, when multiple complainants came forward with accusations of sexual misconduct, human trafficking, and racketeering. Prosecutors alleged the televangelist operated an elaborate scheme targeting vulnerable young women, some reported minors at the time of the alleged offences.
According to initial charges, Sitho and Sulani allegedly played key roles in identifying and recruiting potential victims, who were then transported to various locations, including religious retreats in Nigeria and Israel. The state contended these trips served as cover for illicit activities.
Omotoso maintained these were all part of legitimate religious outreach programs for his Jesus Dominion International church. His defence team consistently argued that the accusations stemmed from cultural and religious misunderstandings.
Legal Wrangling and Delays over eight years
The case’s eight-year duration included numerous legal manoeuvres and delays. Omotoso’s defence team filed multiple motions, including attempts to have charges dismissed, evidence excluded, and Judge Schoeman recused herself from proceedings.
These procedural challenges, witness withdrawals, and the 2020 pandemic-related court closures contributed to the unusually lengthy pretrial and trial periods. Several witnesses reportedly withdrew from the case, expressing emotional exhaustion from the protracted legal process.
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The case took a tragic turn recently when key whistleblower Pamela Mabini was fatally shot in Gqeberha. However, authorities have not established any connection between her death and the Omotoso proceedings.
Omotoso Speaks After He Is Cleared Of All Charges
Following the verdict, a visibly emotional Omotoso expressed gratitude for the outcome.
“I thank God for this deliverance. After eight years of incarceration, I look forward to resting and rebuilding my life.”
When questioned about returning to ministry work, Omotoso suggested he would take time for personal reflection before making any decisions about his future. Legal analysts suggest the acquittal, while legally binding, may still carry significant reputational consequences for all parties involved.