Nollywood actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, has regained his freedom after the Court of Appeal set aside the judgment that convicted him of sexually assaulting a minor.
Baba Ijesha, who was arrested in 2021, had been sentenced to 16 years in prison by the Lagos State High Court, Ikeja, in July 2022, after being found guilty on multiple counts involving the molestation of a 14-year-old girl.
A video circulating on Saturday showed the actor seated inside a vehicle moments after his release.
Appearing relieved, he confirmed his freedom during a brief phone conversation captured in the clip.
In Yoruba, he said, “Apase, I’m out… I just came out. I want to relax. I just want to leave here, so I decided to inform you. Thank you for supporting me. I will call you.”
Confirming the development, actor and human rights activist Yomi Fabiyi praised the Appeal Court’s judgment, describing it as long-awaited clarity on what he termed a case that was “mishandled.”
Fabiyi said, “This decision brings clarity and confirms what some of us have consistently maintained about the case. It highlights the importance of fairness, due process, and the protection of rights in all matters involving minors.”
He added that the ruling did not undermine the fight against sexual abuse, noting, “We have never supported or condoned any form of sexual abuse, especially against children. Our advocacy for justice and human rights remains firm.”
