KZN Woman’s Shocking Plea for Pastor Omotoso Goes Viral After Arrest

Rachel HarperMay 11, 2025

340 1 minute read

Controversial Pastor Timothy Omotoso Sparks Mixed Reactions After Recent Arrest

Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso, previously acquitted of 32 criminal charges in 2025, has found himself in legal trouble again – drawing both support and criticism from South Africans.

A KZN woman begged for Timothy Omotoso to be released in a viral video. Image: Lulama Zenzile / Getty Images / PSAFLIVE / X Source: UGC

Devoted Follower’s Emotional Plea

A video circulating on social media shows Grace Mkhwanazi, an elderly woman from Umlazi, KZN, making an impassioned appeal for Omotoso’s release. In the clip, she claims he is a “prophet of God” and offers to take his place in jail. Her remarks have sparked concern among viewers, with many questioning her mental state or criticizing blind loyalty to controversial religious figures.

Omotoso’s Troubled Legal History

WATCH: Grace Mkhwanazi from KZN who seems like someone who is suffering from mental health opened a new TikTok account to post two videos crying over a Nigerian criminal Timothy Omotoso who was arrested on Saturday in East London. pic.twitter.com/HMwgnpDRXn
— PSAFLIVE (@PSAFLIVE) May 11, 2025

The pastor was initially arrested in 2017 on over 60 charges, including human trafficking and sexual assault. After a lengthy trial, he was acquitted in 2025 – a decision met with celebrations by his supporters. However, his freedom was short-lived, as he faced fresh legal issues shortly after.

Fugitive pastor Shepherd Bushiri reportedly advised Omotoso to leave South Africa following his release, though it’s unclear if he heeded the warning.

Timothy Omotoso faced numerous criminal charges after his arrest in 2017. Image: Lulama Zenzile Source: Getty Images

Public Backlash

Social media reactions to Mkhwanazi’s video were largely critical:

“Yup, she’s sick” – @Thendo_Khae_
“Blind loyalty at its worst” – @NoniNhlaks
“These cult-like followings are dangerous” – @KG_ZA2025

A Divided Response

While some supporters celebrated Omotoso’s 2025 acquittal with rallies and branded T-shirts, many South Africans remain wary of his influence. The case continues to highlight debates around religious manipulation and legal accountability.

Source: Briefly News