Nollywood actor Olarenwaju James, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, has reportedly regained his freedom following a Court of Appeal judgment that overturned his conviction for the sexual assault of a minor.

The actor was arrested in 2021 and, in July 2022, sentenced to 16 years in prison by the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja after being found guilty on several counts related to the assault of a 14-year-old girl.

A widely circulated but unverified video obtained by our correspondent on Saturday appeared to show the comic actor seated in a vehicle shortly after his release. In the clip, he expresses relief and repeatedly says he needs time to rest.

The footage, shared across Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), has not yet been independently verified. However, the man in the video bears a strong resemblance to Baba Ijesha.

In a brief phone conversation heard in the clip, the actor says 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. Thank you for supporting me. I will call you.”

Nollywood actor and friend Yomi Fabiyi also announced the development on Friday, stating on Instagram that the Appeal Court’s decision had brought clarity to what he described as a previously “mishandled case.”

Fabiyi wrote that the ruling “clears” Baba Ijesha, adding that the prolonged legal battle underscores the importance of fairness, due process, and the protection of rights in cases involving minors.

He emphasized his stance against all forms of abuse:
“We never and will never condone or support any form of sexual abuse, let alone involving children or minors. We will continue to advocate for justice and protection of fundamental human rights.”