Nollywood actor Baba Ijesha has been released from prison after the Court of Appeal overturned his conviction for sexually assaulting a minor, a ruling that has sparked jubilation among supporters and renewed debate about justice in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Court of Appeal Clears Baba Ijesha
Nollywood actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, better known as Baba Ijesha, has been released from prison following a ruling by the Court of Appeal in Lagos. The court overturned his earlier conviction for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl, a case that had dominated headlines since 2021.
Baba Ijesha was initially sentenced by the Lagos High Court in July 2022 to 16 years imprisonment, structured to run concurrently for a total of five years. He had appealed the judgment in 2024, insisting that he was set up and that the viral CCTV footage was part of a “script” allegedly orchestrated by comedian Damilola Adekoya (Princess), the foster mother of the minor.
On November 14, 2025, the Court of Appeal ruled in his favor, leading to his immediate release.
Reactions to His Release
Fellow actor Yomi Fabiyi confirmed the development on Instagram, declaring that Baba Ijesha had “officially regained his freedom.”
Broadcaster Kola Olotu also celebrated the ruling, posting “Baba Ijesha tide o” (meaning “Baba Ijesha has returned”) on Facebook.
Supporters described the ruling as vindication, while critics argued it raises troubling questions about accountability and the protection of minors.
Background of the Case
The case first went viral in 2021, sparking nationwide outrage and intense debate across Nollywood and social media. Baba Ijesha’s conviction in 2022 was seen as a landmark in addressing sexual abuse allegations in the entertainment industry. His release now reignites discussions about legal fairness, celebrity influence, and public trust in Nigeria’s judiciary.
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