Nollywood actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, widely known as Baba Ijesha, has opened up about his strained relationship with actress Iyabo Ojo, expressing disappointment over how events unfolded between them.
Speaking during an interview on a podcast hosted by Biola Adebayo, the actor reflected on their past connection, revealing that Ojo once entrusted him with the care of her children, Festus and Priscilla, during their younger years.
According to him, the incident occurred at Ojo’s shop in Ilupeju, Lagos, where she briefly stepped out and left the children in his custody. He described the moment as a sign of trust that makes their current situation difficult for him to understand.
Baba Ijesha said he was particularly hurt by Ojo’s public stance during the 2021 sexual assault controversy involving him. The actress had been among those who advocated for justice for the minor at the centre of the case, supporting comedian Damilola Adekoya, also known as Princess.
While reacting to the situation, the actor maintained that he holds no ill will toward Ojo but wished she had addressed any grievances directly with him. He added that he was surprised by her reaction, given their history.
He also addressed claims that Ojo took offence at a past comedy skit in which he mentioned her name alongside other public figures, including Bobrisky and Lizzy Anjorin. According to him, the content was intended purely for entertainment.
Reflecting on his time in prison, Baba Ijesha described the experience as life-changing, dismissing claims that some inmates, including Bobrisky, were treated differently. He recounted interactions within the facility and noted the challenges of incarceration.
The actor’s remarks come years after his conviction by a Lagos State High Court in July 2022 over charges related to sexual assault and indecent treatment of a minor. He was sentenced to prison terms that were to run concurrently.
Subsequent clarifications by the Lagos State Ministry of Justice indicated that although parts of the case linked to earlier allegations were set aside on appeal, the conviction and sentence tied to the 2021 incident remained valid.
Baba Ijesha also used the opportunity to comment on tensions within the entertainment industry, suggesting that conflicts among colleagues are often unnecessary.
About the Author
