Nollywood actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, has been released from prison following a Court of Appeal judgment overturning his conviction for the sexual assault of a minor.

PUNCH Online earlier reported that the actor was arrested in 2021, and in July 2022, the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja sentenced him to 16 years’ imprisonment after finding him guilty on multiple counts related to the assault of a 14-year-old girl.

In a video circulating on Saturday and obtained by our correspondent, the comic actor was seen sitting inside a vehicle shortly after his release. He expressed relief and said he needed time to rest.

During a brief phone conversation captured in the clip, he said 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.”

Confirming his release, Nollywood actor and activist Yomi Fabiyi welcomed the Appeal Court’s ruling in a post on Instagram, describing the judgment as one that brought clarity to what he called a mishandled case.

Fabiyi noted that the decision “clears” the actor and urged the public and authorities to treat sensitive allegations with utmost care.

“He is not just back but better,” Fabiyi wrote, adding that the lengthy legal battle highlights the need for fairness, due process, and protection of rights in all cases involving minors.

He further emphasized that, as a human rights advocate, he remains firmly against all forms of abuse.

“We never and will never condone or support any form of sexual abuse, let alone on children or minors. We will continue to advocate for justice and protection of fundamental human rights,” he stated.

It was gathered that the Court of Appeal, in its judgment, held that the evidence tendered was insufficient to sustain the earlier conviction, leading to Baba Ijesha’s release.