Nigerian actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, better known by his stage name Baba Ijesha, has been released from prison following a decision by the Appeal Court that overturned his previous conviction.
The comic actor regained his freedom on Friday, November 14, 2025, after spending more than three years behind bars. His imprisonment stemmed from allegations of sexual assault, a case that drew nationwide attention and controversy.
News of his release was first confirmed by fellow actor and activist Yomi Fabiyi, who posted an update on Instagram on Friday evening. Fabiyi disclosed that the appellate court had cleared Baba Ijesha of the allegations, describing the initial claims particularly the narrative involving a 7-year-old as misleading and unjust.
“You are now officially free and out,” Fabiyi wrote. “I’m glad the Appeal Court has affirmed that there was no sexual contact or defilement of any child or minor. The truth has finally prevailed.”
Baba Ijesha had originally been sentenced to 16 years in prison by the Lagos State High Court on July 14, 2022, for the alleged assault of a 14-year-old girl. The lengthy trial and subsequent conviction sparked heated public debate, with opinions sharply divided across social and mainstream media.
With the Appeal Court’s latest ruling, the actor has now walked out of custody, bringing a dramatic turn to a case that has spanned more than five years and deeply polarized public perception.