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

Abiodun Ayoyinka Rebrands as Bondu Alaska Amid Papa Ajasco Identity and Brand Dispute

Popular Nigerian actor Abiodun Ayoyinka has officially rebranded himself with a new public identity, adopting the stage name Bondu Alaska following growing discussions around his career, finances, and the use of the iconic Papa Ajasco character.

Ayoyinka, widely known for his role in the long-running comedy series Papa Ajasco & Company, announced the change in a video posted on his Instagram page on Saturday, where he introduced himself with confidence under his new name.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, good morning Nigerians. My name is Bondu Alaska. The one and only Bondu Alaska,” he declared in the viral clip.

The actor expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their support, particularly following recent public attention surrounding his personal and professional situation. He stated that he is embracing a fresh phase in his career and remains committed to making a positive impression moving forward.

“I’m a new person now, and I promise that I will not let you down,” he added.

As part of the transition, Ayoyinka has updated his Instagram handle to @bondualaska_ and encouraged fans, collaborators, and brands to connect with him through his new identity, signaling a deliberate move toward personal rebranding in the entertainment industry.

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The development comes amid an ongoing dispute involving Ayoyinka and Wale Adenuga, founder of Wale Adenuga Productions, over the usage and ownership of the Papa Ajasco brand, which has become a widely recognized intellectual property in Nigerian television.

Earlier comments made by Ayoyinka about financial hardship generated public debate, prompting Adenuga to respond by describing the claims as misleading. He maintained that the actor had benefited from his involvement in the production over the years, including access to support and resources.

Adenuga further explained that while the Papa Ajasco brand is protected to maintain its integrity, actors associated with it are free to pursue independent projects, provided they do not misuse the brand or infringe on its intellectual property.

Despite the rebranding, many fans continue to associate Ayoyinka strongly with his iconic Papa Ajasco persona, a character that has played a significant role in shaping his popularity across Nigeria and beyond. Reactions on social media reflect a mix of nostalgia, support, and humor, with some users insisting that the actor will always be identified with the character.

The move highlights broader themes in the entertainment industry, particularly around brand ownership, intellectual property rights, and identity transition for actors who become closely tied to long-standing roles. Industry observers note that such rebranding efforts are often strategic, allowing entertainers to redefine their image, explore new opportunities, and establish independence beyond a single defining character.

Abiodun Ayoyinka Rebrands as Bondu Alaska Amid Papa Ajasco Identity and Brand Dispute

‘Thunder Will Strike’ — Portable’s Political Message Sparks Backlash

Controversial street-hop singer Portable, whose real name is Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, has ignited fresh political debate after issuing a strong warning to Yoruba voters ahead of the next general elections, urging them to support Bola Tinubu or face what he described as spiritual consequences.

In a video that has gone viral across social media platforms, the “Zazu” crooner openly declared his support for Tinubu’s second-term ambition while warning that any Yoruba person who refuses to vote for the President could face divine punishment.

Portable, known for his controversial public statements, invoked traditional beliefs during his remarks, referencing deities such as Ogun while addressing his audience. His comments have since triggered mixed reactions, with many describing the statement as extreme and inappropriate in a democratic setting.

“We need peace, we want peace. If you don’t want war in Nigeria, you better vote for Tinubu. Thunder and Ogun will strike any Yoruba man who doesn’t,” he said in the video.

The singer also claimed he had been engaged by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to mobilise grassroots support for the President, adding that he had already received party-branded materials.

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According to him, plans are underway to begin political mobilisation at the community level, including the distribution of food items such as rice and vegetable oil to attract voters.

His comments have sparked widespread criticism online, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the use of spiritual threats in political messaging. Critics argue that such rhetoric could promote fear, deepen political divisions, and undermine democratic values.

Political observers have also cautioned against the growing trend of entertainers playing active roles in partisan politics, especially when their influence is used to push coercive or emotionally charged narratives.

However, some supporters dismissed Portable’s remarks as part of his usual dramatic style, noting that the singer is known for making exaggerated statements to draw attention.

As of now, there has been no official response from the APC regarding Portable’s claim that he was engaged by the party for mobilisation.

The development highlights the increasing intersection of entertainment and politics in Nigeria, where celebrities continue to shape public discourse, particularly among young voters on social media.

‘Thunder Will Strike’ — Portable’s Political Message Sparks Backlash