The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into a fresh wave of reactions following reports that veteran Yoruba actor and comedian, Baba Ijesha (Olanrewaju James), has allegedly been released from prison.
Baba Ijesha, who became the centre of a heated national controversy in 2021, was convicted in 2022 by a Lagos High Court for sexual assault and indecent treatment of a minor. He received a five-year prison sentence, a decision that was subsequently upheld by the Appeal Court after he sought to challenge the ruling.
His conviction followed the viral spread of CCTV footage, an intense public outcry, and a widely followed court trial that polarized opinions across the country. The case became one of the most talked-about scandals in Nollywood history, raising sensitive debates about justice, abuse, celebrity culture, and the role of social media.
However, new reports emerging today indicate that the embattled actor has regained his freedom. While details surrounding the exact conditions or legal basis for his release remain sketchy, the news has already sparked a flurry of discussions on social media platforms. Some Nigerians describe the development as a major twist in the long-running saga, while others are demanding clarity from the authorities regarding the circumstances of his release.
Within Nollywood, stakeholders are reacting cautiously as they await official confirmation and further information. For many, Baba Ijesha’s alleged release marks yet another turning point in a case that has deeply impacted the industry’s public perception.
