Controversial Nollywood actor Yomi Fabiyi has stirred renewed public outrage after reiterating his defence of convicted actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, describing the 2021 incident as mere “play” rather than an act of sexual violence.
According to The Nigerian Tribune, during a recent live broadcast that has since gone viral, Fabiyi attempted to minimise the seriousness of the offence that led to Baba Ijesha’s imprisonment. Speaking in Yoruba, he maintained that there was no intent to commit rape, claiming instead that the actor only intended to briefly interact with the girl, including kissing her, because he expected the homeowner to return soon. He also alleged that the interaction involved inappropriate touching.
He said, There was no intention to rape. Baba Ijesha just wanted to play with the girl and kiss her quickly because he knew the homeowner would be back soon. He just wanted to kiss the girl and play with her breasts.”
The case, which sent shockwaves through the Nigerian entertainment industry in 2021, centred on the sexual assault of a 14-year-old foster child of comedienne Damilola Adekoya, widely known as Princess. Crucial evidence in the case was captured on CCTV footage, which played a significant role during the trial.
In July 2022, a Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja found Baba Ijesha guilty of sexual assault and indecent treatment of a minor. The court sentenced him to five years and three years in prison respectively, with both terms to run concurrently.
Following his release, the Lagos State Ministry of Justice clarified his legal status. The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, explained that although some earlier allegations had been overturned by the Court of Appeal, the conviction and sentence tied to the 2021 offence remained valid.
Fabiyi, who has long supported the convicted actor, used his platform to argue that the investigation and trial process were influenced by personal interests and procedural irregularities. He insisted that parts of the case ought to be reviewed, suggesting that those involved in setting up the operation did not adhere to proper legal procedures.
Despite the backlash over his remarks, Fabiyi maintained that his position was based on civil rights concerns rather than support for sexual violence. He stated that his human rights group opposes all forms of child abuse but argued that the conditions leading to the legal actions taken were flawed.
“We will continue to stand against selective justice and abuse of fundamental rights,” Fabiyi asserted, maintaining that his concerns remain centred on what he describes as procedural lapses and inconsistencies.
His comments have since triggered widespread criticism online, with many child protection advocates condemning his stance as insensitive and warning that such remarks risk trivialising sexual offences against minors……See More
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