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The Department of Home Affairs stated on Sunday that Timothy Omotoso, a Nigerian televangelist who was recently cleared of rape and human trafficking charges, has departed South Africa and will not be allowed to return for the next five years.

Over the weekend, Omotoso, the leader of the Jesus Dominion International Church, was spotted getting ready to leave at OR Tambo International Airport.

According to sources, he is anticipated to reach Lagos, Nigeria, by 8 p.m. local time.

His departure occurs almost a month after the Eastern Cape High Court cleared him of all allegations that had imprisoned him for eight years, including rape, sexual assault, people trafficking, and limiting the mobility of his supporters.

Civil society and rights organizations fiercely criticized the case, which attracted national attention, claiming that the ruling denied survivors justice.

Lusanda Solani and Zikiswa Sitho, his co-accused, were also found not guilty, although they could still be charged if the National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) appeal is successful.

Amid growing public criticism following the contentious decision, the NPA has opened an internal review into how the matter was handled.

Omotoso left after appearing at the East London Magistrate’s Court on May 10th for immigration-related matters. Soon after, he was freed, which led to rumors that he was about to leave.

Siya Qoza, a spokesperson for the Department of Home Affairs, addressed the issue and confirmed the five-year entry restriction, stating, “After the expiry of that period, he will have to apply for permission to be in the country. At that point, the department will review the application and make a decision.”

While declining to comment on specific travel details, Qoza added, “The department does not comment on people’s travel arrangements but confirms travelling within the African continent.”

Human rights advocates have called for structural reform in the prosecution of instances involving gender-based violence, and Omotoso’s case continues to be one of the most divisive in recent South African legal history.

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