Actor leaves prison after judges rule evidence was insufficient; Yomi Fabiyi hails verdict as a win for due process.
Nollywood actor Olarenwaju Omiyinka, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, has been released from prison following a Court of Appeal judgment overturning his conviction for sexually assaulting a minor.
The actor, who was arrested in 2021 and sentenced to 16 years’ imprisonment by the Lagos State High Court in July 2022, regained his freedom after the appellate court ruled that the evidence previously tendered was insufficient to sustain his conviction.
A video circulating on Saturday showed Baba Ijesha sitting in a vehicle shortly after his release, expressing relief and saying he needed time to rest. In a brief phone conversation captured in the clip, 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.”
Confirming the development, actor and activist Yomi Fabiyi praised the court’s decision in an Instagram post, describing the ruling as one that brought “clarity” to a case he believed was mishandled. He said the judgment underscores the importance of fairness, due process, and protection of rights in cases involving minors.
Fabiyi maintained that while he celebrates the victory of due process, he does not support or condone any form of sexual abuse. “We never and will never condone abuse, especially involving children,” he said, adding that his advocacy remains rooted in justice and human rights.
The Appeal Court ruling effectively brings an end to the prolonged legal battle, restoring the actor’s freedom after more than two years behind bars.
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