Nollywood actor Olarenwaju James, popularly called Baba Ijesha, has reportedly been released from prison following the Court of Appeal judgment that overturned his conviction for the sexual assault of a minor.
The actor was arrested in 2021, and in July 2022, the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja sentenced him to 16 years’ imprisonment after finding him guilty on multiple counts relating to the assault of a 14-year-old girl.
An unverified but widely distributed video received by our journalist on Saturday showed the comic actor sitting in a vehicle shortly after being released, expressing relief and stating that he needed to rest.
The footage was released by many accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
In a brief phone conversation captured in the clip, the actor was heard saying 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,” Baba Ijesha said.
His colleague and friend, Yomi Fabiyi, also broke the news of the alleged Appeal Court’s judgment in a Friday post on Instagram, saying the ruling had brought clarity to what he described as a mishandled case.
Fabiyi said the decision “clears” the actor and urged the public and authorities to handle sensitive allegations with care.
“He is not just back but better,” Fabiyi wrote, adding that the lengthy legal battle underscored the need for fairness, due process, and protection of rights in all cases involving minors.”
He also emphasized that as a human rights advocate, he stands against 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 human rights,” he stated.
