In a dramatic turn of events, popular Nollywood actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, widely known as Baba Ijesha, has been released from prison after the Appeal Court overturned his conviction for the sexual assault of a minor.
The actor regained his freedom on Friday, November 14, 2025, having spent over three years in custody. His release was announced by fellow actor and longtime supporter, Yomi Fabiyi, in a post on his official Instagram page.
Fabiyi shared the news with celebratory fervor, declaring the actor had been cleared by the higher court. He 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.”
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This development overturns the original verdict from July 14, 2022, where the Lagos State High Court had sentenced Baba Ijesha to 16 years in prison for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl. The case had been a high-profile and deeply controversial one, polarizing public opinion and the Nollywood community.
The initial conviction was the culmination of a legal process that began with his arrest in April 2021. The allegations had sparked a national conversation about child safety and the accountability of public figures. Throughout the ordeal, a segment of his colleagues, led by Fabiyi, maintained his innocence, arguing that he was a victim of a setup.
The Appeal Court's decision to overturn the conviction and clear him of the charges marks a stunning legal victory for the actor. His release ends a long and highly publicized legal battle, although it is likely to reignite debate and discussion surrounding the case and the Nigerian justice system.
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