Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Veteran Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has issued a stern public warning to fellow actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, demanding that he immediately cease mentioning her children in interviews and public discussions about his past conviction and career.
The warning follows remarks made by Baba Ijesha in recent media appearances, including on a widely viewed podcast, where he referenced moments from his past in the film industry and, in the process, mentioned that he once cared for Iyabo Ojo’s children when they were younger. Iyabo Ojo described those comments as inappropriate and misleading, stressing that her children have no connection to Baba Ijesha’s personal narrative or legal matters.
In a message shared on her social media platforms, Ojo emphasised that her children — Festus and Priscilla — have always been under proper care, either by her late mother or professional nannies, and that her busy work schedule never left them unattended. She referred to Baba Ijesha’s references to her children as “cheap bait” and warned that any further mention of them in his public comments would force her to consider legal action to protect their privacy and well‑being.
Iyabo Ojo also clarified that her relationship with Baba Ijesha was professional and not as close as he described. She rejected suggestions that there was a personal bond deep enough to involve her family, saying: “You were a senior colleague, no more to it.”
The controversy has attracted wide attention on social media, with fans, entertainment commentators, and industry colleagues weighing in. Some have expressed support for Iyabo Ojo’s stance on protecting her children from being dragged into public disputes, while others have criticised media outlets and talk show hosts for platforming Baba Ijesha without addressing the sensitive nature of his past conviction.
The remarks that sparked the exchange came in the wake of Baba Ijesha’s release from prison late last year following legal proceedings related to his 2022 conviction on charges involving sexual misconduct with a minor — a case that generated intense debate across the Nigerian entertainment industry and broader public. Since regaining his freedom, Baba Ijesha has appeared on several media platforms, attempting to tell his side of the story and reflect on his career, which has led to renewed conversations about accountability and rehabilitation within the industry.
Iyabo Ojo’s response underscores the broader issue of how public figures engage with personal histories and the potential impact such discussions can have on unrelated individuals, especially children. Legal experts note that public references to third parties, particularly minors, in discussions about criminal matters can raise concerns about defamation and invasion of privacy, and that such actions are subject to legal scrutiny regardless of the speaker’s public profile.
The actress’s warning also drew further reactions from peers within Nollywood. Some industry professionals have called for more thoughtful and responsible engagement with sensitive topics, highlighting the importance of safeguarding vulnerable parties from harm or public speculation. Others have emphasised that the situation should prompt a deeper conversation about how the entertainment industry supports rehabilitation without infringing on the rights and dignity of others.
As of this report, there has been no response from Baba Ijesha to Iyabo Ojo’s warning. The exchange continues to generate discussion online, with many observers watching closely for any further developments. The situation highlights the delicate balance between freedom of expression, accountability, and respect for personal boundaries in an age where public narratives can rapidly influence public opinion.
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