After nearly eight years behind bars, Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso has shockingly been acquitted on all 32 charges of rape, sexual assault, human trafficking and racketeering. The Gqeberha High Court’s ruling has sparked national outrage – not only because of the gravity of the allegations but also due to the bungling by the National Prosecuting Authority that led to the acquittal.
Omotoso, head of the Jesus Dominion International church, was arrested in April 2017 in dramatic fashion at a South African airport. Alongside co-accused Lusanda Sulani and Zukiswa Sitho – alleged recruiters of victims – he was accused of grooming and abusing girls, some as young as 14, by luring them to locations in South Africa, Nigeria and Israel.
Judge Irma Schoeman said that while the accused’s explanations were “improbable”, the State had failed to disprove them. Crucially, the prosecution’s case was riddled with issues: “The cross-examination was shallow and lacking intention to uncover the truth,” she noted. In some instances, cross-examinations lasted less than a morning. Yikes.
The trial saw multiple prosecutors come and go. Advocate Nceba Ntelwa even encouraged witnesses to omit certain parts of their testimony. He eventually withdrew, but not before the damage was done. The drawn-out case also led several witnesses to withdraw entirely, reducing the charges from 63 to 32.
Despite graphic testimony from complainants – including Cheryl Zondi, the only one to testify throughout – the State failed to provide corroborating evidence like phone records or timelines.
Women’s rights groups have slammed the ruling. Sonke Gender Justice called the prosecution “grossly incompetent,” while activist Lisa Vetten labelled it “a travesty of justice.” Zondi, tearful in a TV interview, said: “It’s knowing he is not going to stop. This verdict is enabling to him.”
Omotoso, who will be deported to Nigeria, said only: “I thank God.” The NPA says it’s studying the judgment to explore possible next steps. But for now, the justice system has a serious black eye – and survivors, once again, are left without closure.
Emma is a freshly graduated Journalist from Stellenbosch University, who also holds an Honours in history. She joined the explain team, eager to provide thorough and truthful information and connect with her generation.
