Pastor Timothy Omotoso, a Nigerian televangelist based in South Africa, has been acquitted of all charges related to rape and human trafficking, ending a lengthy legal battle that began in 2017. The 66-year-old pastor, who leads the Jesus Dominion International Church, faced serious accusations involving the sexual exploitation of young women, including members of his gospel group, Grace Galaxy, and school-aged girls.

On Wednesday, the Gqeberha High Court ruled in favor of Omotoso, declaring the evidence insufficient to support the charges against him. Judge Irma Schoeman presided over the case, during which Omotoso and his co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zukiswa Sitho, maintained their innocence throughout the proceedings.

The court's decision came after Omotoso had spent eight years in custody following his arrest in 2017, where he faced a total of 63 charges, including sexual assault and racketeering. The judge criticized the quality of cross-examination presented by the prosecution, ultimately leading to the discharge of all three defendants.

Following the verdict, Omotoso and his co-accused expressed their relief by kneeling in prayer within the courtroom. Their acquittal highlights ongoing concerns surrounding sexual violence in South Africa, a country that reported over 42,500 rapes in the past year.

The pastor’s church, located in Port Elizabeth, faced significant backlash during the trial, including protests that led to its closure. Reports also emerged of threats directed at witnesses who testified against Omotoso, indicating the intense atmosphere surrounding the case.

Omotoso's ministry, known for its charismatic style and promises of miracles, gained notoriety in South Africa, particularly for its performances featuring young female singers, some of whom have participated in the Idols South Africa competition. With his recent acquittal, Omotoso is now free after nearly a decade entangled in serious allegations.