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Nigerian Televangelist Pastor freed after immigration case stumbles

Date: May 13, 2025

Nigerian pastor and televangelist Timothy Omotoso has been released from custody after a procedural misstep by South African (SA) authorities led to his court appearance being delayed beyond the legal time frame.

Omotoso was arrested on Saturday in East London on allegations relating to a breach of the country’s immigration laws. He was expected to be brought before a magistrate within 48 hours, in line with legal requirements.

However, the East London Regional Court only saw him at around 14:00 CAT on Monday well after the 48-hour window had closed at 7:00 CAT that morning.

National Prosecuting Authority Spokesperson Luxolo Tyali confirmed that due to this delay, Omotoso could not be lawfully detained any longer. “He had to be released as the Department of Home Affairs failed to comply with the stipulated legal process,” Tyali stated.

The incident has once again placed Omotoso in the public eye, reviving attention around his previous legal battles in SA. Authorities have not yet indicated whether further action will be taken regarding the immigration matter.

--ChannelAfrica--

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