Nollywood actor Olarenwaju James, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, has reportedly been released from prison following a Court of Appeal ruling that overturned his conviction for the sexual assault of a minor.
Baba Ijesha was initially arrested in 2021. In July 2022, the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja sentenced him to 16 years in prison after finding him guilty on multiple counts related to the assault of a 14-year-old girl.
A widely circulated but unverified video obtained by our correspondent on Saturday showed the actor inside a vehicle shortly after his release. In the clip, he appeared relieved and expressed a desire to rest.
The video has been shared across Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), though PUNCH Online has not independently confirmed its authenticity.
In a brief conversation captured in the video, he 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.”
The news of his release was also shared by his friend and fellow actor, Yomi Fabiyi, on Instagram.
Fabiyi described the Appeal Court’s ruling as bringing clarity to what he called a mishandled case.
“He is not just back but better,” Fabiyi wrote, noting that the prolonged legal battle highlights the importance of fairness, due process, and the protection of rights in cases involving minors.
Fabiyi added that as a human rights advocate, he opposes all forms of abuse and reaffirmed his commitment to justice and the protection of fundamental human rights.
“We never and will never condone or support any form of sexual abuse, especially against children or minors. We will continue to advocate for justice and protection of fundamental human rights,” he said.
