Nigerian actress and media host, Biola Adebayo, has publicly apologised following intense criticism over her recent sit-down with embattled actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, widely known as Baba Ijesha.
The now-viral interview, aired on her YouTube platform Talk To B, triggered outrage after Baba Ijesha revisited the sexual assault case that led to his conviction, claiming he was set up. He also made references to his past relationship with actress Iyabo Ojo — a move that didn’t sit well with many viewers.
Facing the heat, Biola took to Instagram on Tuesday with a video statement, attempting to set the record straight. According to her, the intention behind the interview was simple: give Baba Ijesha a chance to either apologise or share his side of the story. But that didn’t go as planned.
“What happened is when Baba Ijesha just came back from prison, he told me he was back, and I asked him, ‘Do you want to do an interview to apologise? Or to clear the air so that you can continue your life?’ And he said no, that he wasn’t ready,” she explained.
Biola admitted she expected some level of remorse during the conversation — but it never came.
Still, she defended her role as a journalist, stressing that her duty is to ask questions, not to pass judgment.
“The platform is for both the good and the bad. It’s for saints and sinners,” she said.
The actress, who also revealed she is a survivor of sexual assault, firmly rejected claims that the interview was meant to excuse or downplay Baba Ijesha’s conviction. She doubled down on her stance, making it clear she does not support or condone abuse in any form.
“I would never be an accomplice to a paedophile or a rapist. I protect the girl child. I protect children to the best of my ability,” she stated.
She also addressed swirling rumours that the interview was a subtle jab at Iyabo Ojo, especially after mentions of her family surfaced during the conversation. Biola dismissed the claims, insisting there was no hidden agenda.
“A lot of people are insinuating that the video is to tarnish Iyabo Ojo’s image. I would never do that,” she added.
Ending her statement on a softer note, Biola appealed to the public for understanding.
“Please forgive me. I am not here to justify anything. I am a very peaceful person. I don’t like controversies.”
