Nigerian actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, has regained his freedom after spending over three years in prison over sexual assault allegations. The actor was released on Friday, November 14, 2025, following a ruling by the Appeal Court that cleared him of all charges.
Baba Ijesha’s release marks the end of a long legal battle that began in 2022, when he was sentenced to 16 years in prison by the Lagos State High Court. He had been accused of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl, a charge that generated widespread public attention and media coverage at the time.
Announcing the actor’s release, colleague and fellow actor Yomi Fabiyi took to Instagram to share the news with his followers. Fabiyi wrote:
“You are now officially FREE AND OUT. Baba Ijesha is not just back but BETTER. I am also happy you were cleared by the APPEAL COURT of ever having sex/defile any child/minor. The 7-year-old story is a charade. We live in a terrible world, where sentiments and wickedness rise above the rule of law and truth.”
The statement highlights the actor’s supporters’ relief and highlights that the Appeal Court’s decision overturned the previous conviction, clearing him of all wrongdoing.
Baba Ijesha, a well-known figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry, was convicted on July 14, 2022, by the Lagos State High Court. The court sentenced him to 16 years in prison for allegedly sexually assaulting a minor. The case caused national outrage, sparking discussions on child protection, sexual abuse, and the responsibility of public figures.
The trial was closely followed by both the media and the public, with many debates about the Nigerian justice system and how high-profile cases are handled. Baba Ijesha maintained his innocence throughout the process, and his legal team consistently appealed the initial verdict.
The Appeal Court’s decision to overturn the conviction has brought a sense of relief to the actor, his family and supporters, who have maintained that he was wrongfully accused.
The release of Baba Ijesha has sparked reactions across social media platforms, with colleagues in the entertainment industry and fans expressing support and relief. Many praised the Appeal Court for delivering justice and clearing the actor’s name.
Yomi Fabiyi, who has been an outspoken supporter of Baba Ijesha, highlighted that the case had been influenced by public sentiment rather than facts. Fabiyi’s statement highlighted the need for the rule of law to prevail over popular opinion or emotional reactions, a point that resonated with many Nigerians following the saga.
The actor himself has not yet made a public statement since his release, but sources close to him say he is expected to resume his career in the entertainment industry soon.
Baba Ijesha’s release is significant for the Nigerian entertainment industry, where the case had raised concerns about the reputational risks faced by actors and public figures accused of criminal offenses. The case also prompted calls for stronger legal protections for both victims and the accused, highlighting due process and the importance of evidence-based judgments.
As Baba Ijesha reintegrates into society, attention will likely turn to his career revival, public reception, and the broader implications of the case for justice in Nigeria’s entertainment sector.
