The Court of Appeal in Lagos is considering the case of Nollywood actor, Olanrewaju James, also known as Baba Ijesha, who is challenging his conviction for sexually assaulting a minor.
Baba Ijesha was convicted on July 14, 2022, and sentenced to five years in prison by Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo (retd.) of the Ikeja Domestic Violence and Sexual Offences Court.
A three-person panel, led by Justice Folasade Ojo, heard Baba Ijesha’s appeal and has reserved judgment. Baba Ijesha’s lawyer, Mr. Kayode Olabiran, argued that the prosecution failed to prove the sexual assault charge against his client.
Olabiran claimed Baba Ijesha was set up, stating that the incident was part of a script he was asked to act in by his colleague.
Olabiran contended that Baba Ijesha’s confession was made under duress, and he urged the court to overturn the lower court’s judgment.
However, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Dr. Babajide Martins, argued that the appeal lacked merit and should be dismissed.
Martins also maintained that the victim was a minor at the time of the offense, citing her age at the time and during her testimony in court.
He urged the court to uphold the lower court’s decision, which found Baba Ijesha guilty of indecent treatment of a child and sexual assault.
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