Baba Ijesha’s Appeal Rejected: Court of Appeal Stands Firm on Sexual Assault Conviction

The Lagos Division of the Court of Appeal on Friday upheld the Lagos State High Court’s ruling, sentencing Nollywood actor Olanrewaju James, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, to five years imprisonment for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl.

Justice Folashade Ojo of the Court of Appeal affirmed Baba Ijesha’s conviction on two charges: indecent touching and sexual assault of a minor. Justices Abdullahi Bayero and Paul Bassi concurred with Justice Ojo’s decision, reinforcing the lower court’s judgment.

However, Justice Folashade Ojo dismissed Baba Ijesha’s convictions for indecent treatment and another count of sexual assault. The dismissal was based on the unreliable testimony of the prosecution’s witness, Damilola Adekoya, which the court deemed to be hearsay and insufficient to support these particular charges.

The case has drawn significant public attention due to Baba Ijesha’s status as a popular actor in the Nollywood film industry. The initial conviction, delivered by the Lagos State High Court, sparked widespread discussion about child protection and the legal consequences of sexual offenses in Nigeria.

In affirming the lower court’s decision, the Court of Appeal emphasized the importance of protecting minors and ensuring that perpetrators of sexual crimes are held accountable for their actions. The appellate court’s ruling underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding justice, particularly in cases involving vulnerable victims.

Baba Ijesha’s legal team had appealed the initial conviction, arguing that the evidence presented was insufficient to support the charges. However, the Court of Appeal found that the evidence for the charges of indecent touching and sexual assault was compelling and upheld the five-year prison sentence.

The dismissal of the other charges does not diminish the severity of the offenses for which Baba Ijesha has been convicted. The court’s ruling serves as a stern reminder of the legal system’s role in safeguarding the rights and dignity of minors in Nigeria.

The ruling has been met with a mixed response from the public, with many advocating for even stricter penalties for sexual offenses against minors. The case continues to highlight the need for robust legal frameworks and societal awareness to combat sexual abuse and protect children from harm.