Court Upholds Nollywood Actor Baba Ijesha’s Five-Year Jail Term

The Lagos Division of the Court of Appeal reaffirmed a five-year prison sentence for Nollywood actor Olanrewaju James, also known as Baba Ijesha, for the sexual assault of a 14-year-old minor. This ruling, delivered by Justice Folashade Ojo, highlights the court’s commitment to protecting children and upholding justice.

In the judgment, Justice Ojo emphasized the credibility of the eyewitness testimony from Damilola Adekoya regarding events on April 19, 2021. Despite some challenges to the evidence, the court found that the voluntary confessions made by Baba Ijesha at two different police stations were crucial. These confessions, made at Sabo Police Station and the State Criminal Investigation Department, provided clear admissions of guilt.

The court’s decision reflects a strong stance against indecent treatment and sexual assault of minors. Justices Abdullahi Bayero and Paul Bassi concurred with Justice Ojo, reinforcing the unified commitment to child protection within the judicial system.

The ruling underscores the effectiveness of eyewitness accounts in criminal proceedings and serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals. By upholding the conviction, the court has taken a significant step in reinforcing the legal framework designed to protect minors and ensure justice is served.