Baba Ijesha Speaks Out After Prison Release, Denies Sexual Assault Conviction

Baba Ijesha Speaks Out After Prison Release, Denies Sexual Assault Conviction

Nollywood actor Olanrewaju James Omiyinka, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, has publicly denied allegations of sexual assault, insisting that he is neither a rapist nor a pedophile, in his first major interview since his release from prison.

The actor made the remarks during a podcast interview hosted by actress and media personality Biola Adebayo, where he addressed the 2021 incident that led to his arrest, trial, conviction, and subsequent imprisonment.

During the interview, Baba Ijesha maintained that he was “set up” in what he described as a coordinated scheme involving individuals he once trusted. He alleged that the events surrounding the case were manipulated to implicate him unfairly.

He specifically accused comedienne Damilola Adekoya, also known as Princess and the foster mother of the victim, of orchestrating events that led to his downfall. The allegation has further intensified public reactions and renewed debate around the case.

The controversy dates back to 2021, when a video recorded via hidden CCTV surfaced online, triggering widespread outrage across Nigeria. The footage played a key role in the legal proceedings that followed.

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In 2022, a court found Baba Ijesha guilty of sexual assault and indecent treatment of a minor involving a 14-year-old girl under the care of Princess. Court proceedings indicated that the abuse allegedly began when the victim was much younger, a detail that drew significant public condemnation at the time.

Following the conviction, the actor was sentenced to five years in prison. The judgment was later upheld on appeal, reinforcing the lower court’s ruling. Baba Ijesha completed his sentence and was released on November 14, 2025, marking his return to public life.

In the recent interview, he reiterated his innocence and argued that the legal process did not reflect the full circumstances of the case as he experienced them. His comments have reignited discussions around criminal conviction in Nigeria, due process, and post-conviction public narratives.

The interview has generated mixed reactions across social media. Many Nigerians have criticized the decision to provide him a platform so soon after his release, arguing that it could be insensitive to victims of gender-based violence and may undermine public trust in accountability mechanisms.

Others, however, contend that he is entitled to express his perspective following the completion of his sentence, highlighting the importance of hearing multiple sides of high-profile cases while respecting judicial outcomes.

The renewed attention surrounding the interview has also sparked broader conversations about media responsibility, victim protection, and how public figures navigate reintegration into society after serving prison terms for serious offenses.

Baba Ijesha Speaks Out After Prison Release, Denies Sexual Assault Conviction