Nollywood actor Olarenwaju Omiyinka, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, has been released from prison following a Court of Appeal judgment that set aside his conviction for the sexual assault of a minor.
The actor had been arrested in 2021, and in July 2022, the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja sentenced him to 16 years in prison after finding him guilty on several counts related to the molestation of a 14-year-old girl.
In a video that surfaced online on Saturday, the comic actor was seen sitting inside a vehicle shortly after regaining freedom. Appearing relieved, he stated that he needed time to rest. In a brief phone conversation captured in the clip, he said 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.”
Confirming the development, Nollywood actor and human rights advocate, Yomi Fabiyi, welcomed the Appeal Court ruling in a post on Instagram. He described the judgment as one that brought clarity to what he termed a mishandled case.
Fabiyi said the ruling “clears” Baba Ijesha and highlighted the importance of fairness, due process, and protection of rights in cases involving minors. “He is not just back but better,” he wrote, noting that the prolonged legal battle reinforced the need for careful handling of sensitive allegations.
He reiterated that as an advocate for human rights, he remains firmly opposed to all forms of abuse. “We never and will never condone or support any form of sexual abuse, let alone on children or minors. We will continue to advocate for justice and protection of fundamental rights,” he stated.
According to findings, the Court of Appeal, in its judgment, held that the evidence presented during the initial trial was insufficient to sustain the conviction, leading to Baba Ijesha’s release.
