Is Baba Ijesha Out of Prison? The Truth Behind the Viral Video with the Ooni of Ife
In recent days, social media has been buzzing with speculation over whether embattled Nollywood actor Baba Ijesha has finally regained his freedom. A viral video surfaced online, showing a man resembling Baba Ijesha in what appeared to be a respectful visit to the Ooni of Ife, stirring widespread claims that the actor had been released from prison.
But what’s the real story?
🎥 The Viral Video and Public Confusion
The short clip, which has spread across X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and WhatsApp, was captioned by some users as “Baba Ijesha visits Ooni after being freed”. The footage sparked mixed reactions: some believed he was indeed released quietly, while others doubted the authenticity or timing of the video.
Yet, as of now, no official confirmation from the Nigerian Correctional Service or the court system supports the claim that he has been released.
A Quick Recap of Baba Ijesha’s Legal Issues
Baba Ijesha, whose real name is James Olanrewaju Omiyinka, was sentenced in July 2022 to 16 years in prison for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl — the foster child of comedian Princess (Damilola Adekoya). However, due to how the sentences run concurrently, he is expected to serve 5 years behind bars.
Despite multiple attempts to appeal the ruling, including a recent Court of Appeal case in 2024, the judgment still stands. The court upheld key parts of the conviction, meaning Baba Ijesha remains in custody.
❌ Not Yet Free
While the actor has filed another appeal to challenge his sentence, there has been no official update confirming his release from prison. Officials have not acknowledged any legal reason why he would be out — whether on parole, bail, or acquittal.
As it stands, the viral video remains unverified and may either be outdated, misrepresented, or falsely attributed.
Why This Matters
Social media is powerful, but also dangerous when it comes to spreading false or misleading information. This case is a reminder that before jumping to conclusions — especially with sensitive cases involving minors and justice — it’s important to wait for credible confirmation.
✅ Conclusion
So, is Baba Ijesha out of prison?
No — not officially. Until Nigerian authorities make a public statement or legal documents show otherwise, he is still serving his sentence. Always verify before you share.
