Nigerian pastor acquitted of rape after eight years in South African jail

A Nigerian televangelist has been found not guilty of all charges. Timothy Omotoso spent eight years in jail. He faced accusations of raping young women from his South African church.

Omotoso denied the 32 charges during a high-profile trial. The trial was broadcast live and attracted significant public interest.

In 2018, a witness testified that Omotoso raped her when she was 14. This incident occurred at his church in Port Elizabeth.

On Wednesday, the judge stated that prosecutors mishandled the case. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) agreed with this assessment. They noted that former prosecutors acted improperly and did not cross-examine adequately.

The NPA will now consider its legal options moving forward. They mentioned that delays in the trial were partly due to Omotoso's legal challenges.

Omotoso expressed gratitude for the verdict when speaking to the media. His co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zikiswa Sitho, were also found not guilty.

Omotoso was arrested dramatically at an airport in 2017 while trying to leave South Africa.

This trial was notable as it was the first prominent rape case broadcast live in South Africa. It raised important questions about victims' rights and courtroom transparency.

Following the verdict, reports indicate that Omotoso will be deported to Nigeria.