Omotoso’s arrest sparks controversy: Lawyers challenge immigration charges

Televangelist Timothy Omotoso appeared at the East London Magistrates’ Court on Monday, facing immigration charges that have ignited a passionate public debate.

The court proceedings were marked by heated protests both supporting and opposing the Nigerian pastor’s arrest, with community members and political groups gathering outside the venue.

Jesus Dominion International Choir outside #TimothyOmotoso pic.twitter.com/FySET0PXTj

— BULELANI🏅 (@BulelaniCiki) May 12, 2025

Omotoso immigration charges and legal challenges

Omotoso was arrested on Saturday morning for allegedly contravening immigration laws, specifically related to his visa status.

The immigration officer who arrested him testified in court, revealing that Omotoso’s working visa expired in August 2017 and was allegedly obtained through fraudulent means.

The pastor’s defence team strongly contested the arrest, arguing that it was “irrational.”

According to his lawyer, Omotoso still has time to appeal the South African government’s decision declaring him a prohibited person.

“The 10 days he has to appeal this decision has not yet lapsed,” the defence argued.

The televangelists’ lawyers also argued that the letter served by Home Affairs to Omotoso in 2022, when he attempted to extend his visa, is identical to the one served to him this year.

ALSO READ: Nigerian pastor Omotoso ‘illegally in SA’ and set to be deported

Community responses over Omotoso arrest divided

Outside the court, community reactions were sharply divided. Supporters from the Jesus Dominion International Church gathered in large numbers to back their leader, while protesters called for his immediate deportation.

ANC’s Reverend Mpumelelo Qwabaza spoke passionately about the broader implications, stating, “We have a responsibility, especially as pastors, because this is a movement. It’s starting here in East London; it’s going to be all over the country.”

Qwabaza told the SABC that the community and church leaders aimed to protect the name and dignity of the country.

“Secondly, ours is about protecting vulnerable women and girls of our country,” Qwabaza stated, adding that Omotoso was tainting the word “reverend”.

He said they were protesting to “protect the word reverend or the word pastor”.

ALSO READ: Churches reject Omotoso’s Buffalo City crusade plans

Key allegations and concerns

Local protesters raised additional concerns. Inam Kula, speaking to Newzroom Afrika on Sunday, emphasised, “We are here to render our dissatisfaction and discontent with the presence of Timothy Omotoso here.

“We are saying that he has no place in South Africa.”

Meanwhile, the Department of Home Affairs is seeking a deportation order, alleging that Omotoso’s initial working permit in 2000 was obtained fraudulently.

Legal proceedings continue

The court matter was postponed to Tuesday, with both the prosecution and defence preparing their arguments.

Omotoso’s legal team is exploring potential legal loopholes, challenging the timing and method of his arrest.

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