Actor Baba Ijesha Regains Freedom

Baba Ijesha has regained his freedom following the Court of Appeal judgment that overturned his conviction for the sexual assault of a minor.

Glamtush reports that Nollywood actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, has been released from prison after spending more than three years in custody over allegations of sexual assault.

The embattled actor walked out of custody on Friday, November 14, following a ruling by the Appeal Court, which reportedly cleared him of the charges that led to his conviction.

The news of his release was confirmed by fellow actor Yomi Fabiyi in an Instagram post on Friday evening.

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.”

He also maintained that as a human rights advocate, he stands against all forms of abuse.
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“We never and will never condone or support any form of sexual abuse, let alone on children or minors.
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‎“We will continue to advocate for justice and protection of fundamental human rights,” he stated.
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Also, in a now circulating video, Baba Ijesha was seen sitting in a vehicle shortly after his release, expressing relief and noting that he needed rest.
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In a brief phone conversation captured in the clip, he was heard saying in Yoruba, ”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.”

Baba Ijesha was previously sentenced to 16 years imprisonment on July 14, 2022, by the Lagos State High Court after he was found guilty of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl.

It was gathered that the appeal court, in its judgment, held that the evidence tendered was insufficient to sustain the earlier conviction, leading to Baba Ijesha’s release.

His release now marks a major twist in a case that sparked nationwide outrage and divided public opinion across Nigeria.