Nollywood actor Olarenwaju James, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, has reportedly regained his freedom after the Court of Appeal 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 in prison after finding him guilty on several counts related to the assault of a 14-year-old girl.
A widely circulated though still unverified video obtained on Saturday shows the actor inside a vehicle shortly after his release. Looking relieved, he stated that he needed time to rest.
The clip has been shared across Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). While PUNCH Online has not independently confirmed the authenticity of the footage, the individual seen celebrating his release closely resembles the actor.
In a brief phone call 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.”
Nollywood actor Yomi Fabiyi, a close friend of Baba Ijesha, also announced the development in an Instagram post on Friday, claiming the Appeal Court’s ruling had brought clarity to what he described as a mishandled case.
Fabiyi stated that the judgment “clears” Baba Ijesha and urged both the public and authorities to treat sensitive allegations with caution.
He added that the long legal process highlights the importance of fairness, due process, and the protection of rights especially in cases involving minors.
Fabiyi emphasized his stance as a human rights advocate, saying, “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 the protection of fundamental human rights.”
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