Nollywood actor Yomi Fabiyi has again defended convicted actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, insisting that the 2021 sexual assault incident was not intended as a criminal act.
In a recent livestream, Fabiyi spoke in Yoruba, arguing that Baba Ijesha’s actions were a matter of “play” rather than a deliberate attempt at sexual violence.
“There was no intention to rape. Baba Ijesha just wanted to play with the girl and kiss her quickly because he knew the homeowner would be back soon. He just wanted to kiss the girl and play with her breasts. We will continue to stand against selective justice and abuse of fundamental rights,” Fabiyi stated.
The case, which involved the 14-year-old foster daughter of comedienne Damilola Adekoya, professionally known as Princess, was widely reported after CCTV footage of the assault surfaced. The footage played a key role in the high-profile trial that eventually led to Baba Ijesha’s conviction and imprisonment.
Fabiyi’s defence comes amid ongoing debates in the Nollywood community about the handling of sexual assault cases and the protection of fundamental rights.
