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The Court of Appeal, Lagos Division, has reserved judgment in the appeal filed by Nollywood actor Olanrewaju James, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, challenging his conviction for sexual assault of a minor.
The appeal was heard by a three-man panel led by Justice Folasade Ojo on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, and the court announced that the judgment would be delivered on a later date to be communicated.
Baba Ijesha was sentenced to sixteen years in prison in July 2022 after being found guilty of four out of six counts of sexual assault against a minor.
The charges stemmed from an incident in April 2021 when the actor was arrested for allegedly assaulting a 14-year-old girl in the care of Nollywood actress Princess.
During the appeal, Baba Ijesha’s lawyer, Kayode Olabiran, argued that the prosecution failed to prove the age of the victim and claimed that the actor was set up.
Olabiran highlighted the fact that the alleged assault was part of a script by a colleague, Damilola Adekoya, and that the video evidence presented in court was merely a recording of the actors playing their roles.
He also argued that Baba Ijesha’s confessional statement was made under duress, as he was allegedly beaten and coerced into admitting guilt.
The case has garnered significant attention, both for the nature of the charges and the involvement of prominent figures in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
As the Court of Appeal deliberates on the appeal, the public awaits the final judgment on the matter, which could have far-reaching implications for the ongoing efforts to address sexual assault and the protection of minors in Nigeria.
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