Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso walked free this week after nearly eight years of legal battles, with the Gqeberha High Court acquitting him and two co-accused of all charges, including rape and human trafficking. The verdict sparked mixed reactions—and drew the attention of a controversial figure: self-proclaimed prophet and fugitive Shepherd Bushiri.
Omotoso found not guilty after lengthy trial
Judge Iram Schoeman ruled that the State had failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt.
“The accused are found not guilty and are discharged on all the charges,” she said, pointing to inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case and poor cross-examination.
Omotoso, Lusanda Solani, and Zikiswa Sitho faced over 30 charges. The State alleged that they had lured young women under the guise of choir auditions, later subjecting them to abuse at the uMhlanga Mission House.
Speaking to the media outside court, Omotoso said, “The only thing I can say is I thank God. Only God can speak to me when the time is right, but for now, I want to rest. It has been a long eight years.”
Bushiri warns: ‘Leave now, while you still can’
The acquittal drew reaction from Bushiri, who remains in Malawi after fleeing South Africa in 2020 while out on bail.
On Facebook, he wrote: “After eight long, agonising years… Timothy Omotoso has been declared innocent… imagine: thirty-two [charges]!”
Bushiri, accused of rape, fraud, and violating immigration laws, offered what he called heartfelt advice.
“To you, my brother Omotoso… leave while you still can. If there’s a window you can use to leave quickly before they deport you, do so.”
His comments reference the likelihood that Omotoso, a foreign national, may now face deportation proceedings despite being cleared in court.
Meanwhile, South African authorities continue efforts to extradite Bushiri and his wife, Mary, from Malawi. Malawi’s Chief Resident Magistrate Court recently ruled in favour of the extradition, but the couple has filed an appeal.
The Department of Justice said it remains committed to ensuring Bushiri faces trial.
“If they do not proceed with the appeal, we will be ready to facilitate their return,” said a department spokesperson.
What do you think—should Omotoso leave the country like Bushiri suggests?
Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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