Nollywood actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, known as Baba Ijesha, has been released from prison after the Court of Appeal cancelled his conviction for sexually assaulting a minor.
He was arrested in 2021, and in July 2022, the Lagos State High Court sentenced him to 16 years in prison for assaulting a 14-year-old girl.
A video now circulating shows the actor sitting in a car shortly after leaving prison.
He looked relieved and 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.”
Nollywood actor and activist Yomi Fabiyi also confirmed the release. He welcomed the Appeal Court’s decision, saying the case had been mishandled and that the judgment brought clarity.
Fabiyi said the long legal fight shows the importance of fairness, due process, and protecting the rights of everyone involved in cases that include minors.
He added that he does not support abuse of any kind and will continue to advocate for human rights.
The Appeal Court ruled that the evidence used to convict Baba Ijesha was not strong enough, which led to his release.
