Baba Ijesha Breaks Silence on Prison Ordeal, Claims Setup by Comedian Princess
Nollywood veteran actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, widely known as Baba Ijesha, has publicly spoken for the first time since his release from prison, offering a detailed account of the events that led to his incarceration. In an exclusive television interview, the actor insisted he is not the person he was portrayed to be during his highly publicized trial.
The Alleged Setup and Rejection That Triggered Events
Appearing on the Talk to B show hosted by actress Abiola Adebayo, which aired on YouTube, Baba Ijesha explained that his troubles began when he declined a personal introduction arranged by comedian Damilola Adekoya, popularly known as Princess. According to the actor, this rejection triggered a chain of events that ultimately resulted in his conviction.
"I was neither guilty of the offences people labelled me with nor the person many assumed me to be," Baba Ijesha stated emphatically during the lengthy interview. He maintained that the accusations had little to do with the actual charge and more to do with personal fallout from the rejected introduction.
Prison Apologies and Alleged Witness Payments
The veteran actor made startling claims about his time behind bars, revealing that some individuals who had accused him later visited him in prison to apologize. According to Baba Ijesha, these accusers confessed they had been promised N250,000 to testify against him during the trial.
He further recounted how he was invited for a movie role where he was asked to act as someone preying on Princess's daughter, claiming he did not realize it was a setup at the time. "I did not realize it was a setup," the actor explained, describing the circumstances that led to his legal troubles.
Background of the Case and Prison Experience
Baba Ijesha was convicted in 2022 for sexually assaulting Princess's 14-year-old foster daughter and was initially sentenced to five years imprisonment, which was later reduced. He served three years before regaining his freedom in November 2025, and his name was placed on the Lagos State offenders register.
During the interview, the actor also spoke about his prison experience in detail, mentioning crossdresser Bobrisky's time in custody, addressing his ongoing feud with actress Iyabo Ojo, and expressing gratitude to actor Yomi Fabiyi, his fans, and the Lagos State government.
Call for Prison Reform and Public Reaction
Baba Ijesha urged authorities to increase the salaries of prison warders, praising their crucial role in reforming inmates. "They deserve better compensation for their important work," he stated, showing appreciation for the correctional system despite his claims of wrongful conviction.
The interview has sparked significant reactions online, with fans and netizens expressing mixed emotions about his revelations. Many social media users have been waiting to hear his side of the story, while others remain skeptical about his claims.
Previous Statements from Princess
Earlier reports indicated that comedian Princess had criticized Yomi Fabiyi following Baba Ijesha's release, accusing him of chasing clout and interfering unnecessarily in the case. She had insisted that Baba Ijesha deserved to remain in prison and warned the public to stay alert, claiming he might return to his old ways.
Her reaction had sparked strong responses online, with many people supporting her stance and expressing concern about the actor's release from prison. The contrasting narratives between Baba Ijesha and Princess continue to fuel public discussion about the case.
