Veteran Nollywood comedian Olanrewaju Omiyinka, better known as Baba Ijesha, has regained his freedom after more than three years behind bars, actor Yomi Fabiyi confirmed in a heartfelt post on Friday, November 14.
Freedom comes via appeal court
According to Fabiyi, an appeal court overturned Baba Ijesha’s 2022 conviction, clearing him of the charges that sent him to prison.
“Baba Ijesha is not just back but BETTER,” Fabiyi wrote in his announcement.
He went on to criticize the original case as being “a charade” and lamented how “sentiments and wickedness” sometimes overshadow the rule of law.
Baba Ijesha was first arrested in April 2021 and charged with multiple counts including sexual assault of a minor.
In July 2022, a Lagos State High Court sentenced him to 16 years in prison for offenses related to indecent treatment of a child and sexual penetration.
But with the appeal court’s decision, Baba Ijesha’s conviction has reportedly been quashed.
Fabiyi’s post did more than celebrate the victory, it raised serious concerns about how the case was handled.
In his statement, he claimed there were “inconsistencies,” including questions around the age of the alleged victim and the use of surveillance footage. He also insisted that the initial trial was tainted by “weaponised abuse” and selective justice.
News of the release sparked both jubilation and skepticism. Broadcaster Kola Olotu also confirmed the development, posting on Facebook that “Baba Ijesha tide o — meaning Baba Ijesha has returned.”
Meanwhile, some media outlets note that as of now, independent confirmation of the appeal court’s full judgment is still limited.