Yomi Fabiyi Claims Betrayal by Baba Ijesha After Prison Release
Nollywood actor and activist Yomi Fabiyi has publicly accused his colleague Olanrewaju Omiyinka, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, of betrayal following his release from prison.
Fabiyi, who had strongly supported Baba Ijesha during his sexual assault case, said he made major sacrifices both personally and professionally while trying to defend him. He was actively involved in protests and also produced the controversial film Oko Iyabo, which aimed to present a different side of the case.
Baba Ijesha was released in November 2025 after serving part of a 16-year sentence handed down in July 2022 by an Ikeja Special Offences Court. His case had drawn nationwide attention and divided public opinion at the time.
In a viral video, Fabiyi expressed deep disappointment, claiming that despite all his efforts, he was repaid with betrayal. He suggested that the actor’s experience in prison was part of a bigger plan, adding that he had put his own life and career on hold to support him.
Fabiyi further alleged that after his release, Baba Ijesha acted against him by involving a third party to threaten him. According to him, he received a voice note warning him not to speak publicly about the case, even after all he had done behind the scenes.
He also spoke about the emotional and mental toll the situation had on him, noting that the stress he faced during the legal battle and appeal process was overwhelming. Fabiyi added that he was heavily criticised by the public for standing by Baba Ijesha, despite believing he was defending human rights.
“I laid down everything I had built to help him,” he said, while maintaining that he has always stood firmly against sexual violence and injustice.
Despite the alleged betrayal, Fabiyi insisted that he remains committed to doing good and speaking the truth, trusting that his efforts will be rewarded in the long run.
Following Baba Ijesha’s release, the Lagos State Government clarified that he was not cleared of the sexual assault conviction and confirmed that his name remains on the state’s sex offenders register.
The situation has reignited conversations online, with many Nigerians debating loyalty, justice, and the risks involved in publicly defending controversial figures.
