A viral video of Baba Ijesha with the Ooni of Ife sparks release rumours. The Nollywood actor was sentenced to 16 years for child sexual assault in 2022

Baba Ijesha sparks rumours of early release after a rare video surfaced online showing the embattled Nollywood actor in the presence of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II.

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The clip, which has been widely circulated across social media platforms, shows Baba Ijesha—born Olanrewaju James—kneeling as the monarch offers prayers and blessings.

This unexpected appearance has triggered a wave of speculation among netizens, many of whom are questioning whether the actor has indeed been released from prison, less than three years into his 16-year sentence.

He was convicted in July 2022 by a Lagos State High Court for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl and was handed a cumulative sentence spanning charges of sexual assault by penetration, indecent treatment of a child, and attempted sexual assault.

The resurfacing of Baba Ijesha in what appears to be a ceremonial setting has reignited debates over justice, celebrity influence, and the Nigerian correctional system.

An X (formerly Twitter) user, @AsakyGRN, posted the clip with a provocative caption: “Baba Ijesha visits the Ooni of Ife after being released from prison.” The user further claimed that the visit was one of gratitude, alleging that the monarch had ordered the actor’s release.

However, as of press time, no official statement from the Nigerian Correctional Service or judiciary has confirmed Baba Ijesha’s release. His presence in the video has therefore not been independently verified as recent or indicative of his legal status.

The Nigerian public remains divided, with some users questioning the authenticity of the clip, while others express outrage at the suggestion of preferential treatment.

In the footage, Baba Ijesha is visibly emotional, seen kneeling before the Ooni while the monarch appears to be offering a blessing. The moment has provoked mixed reactions, especially from child rights activists and Nollywood observers who view the situation with concern.

Recall that Baba Ijesha’s trial drew widespread attention after graphic testimonies and CCTV footage formed the basis of his conviction. His sentence in 2022 was seen as a landmark case in Nigeria’s fight against child sexual abuse.

Also read: Actor Baba Ijesha appeals five-year jail sentence for sexual assault

The emergence of this video has added a new layer of complexity to the actor’s controversial public image, and unless credible clarification follows, it may continue to spark doubts about transparency in Nigeria’s justice system.