Celebrity Status Means Nothing In Prison — Baba Ijesha Shares His Ordeal Behind Bars

Nollywood actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, has spoken about his experience in prison, describing his time behind bars as bitter and alleging that he was made a scapegoat.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the actor made the remarks during an interview with Agabletu TV, where he reflected on his time in custody and urged young Nigerians to be cautious about their actions and decisions.

Speaking about his experience, Baba Ijesha said prison life exposed him to difficult realities that many people outside correctional facilities might not fully understand. He alleged that his case was used to make an example of him because of his celebrity status.

The actor said, “Bitter because I was a scapegoat. Do you know, many want people to learn a lesson from celebrities.”

He also advised young people to think carefully before taking actions that could have serious consequences, warning that decisions they might consider harmless could eventually lead to imprisonment.

Baba Ijesha further alleged that some prison warders treated inmates harshly, adding that being a public figure did not give anyone special treatment behind bars. He said he was surprised to see influential individuals, including ministers, treated like ordinary inmates.

The actor also spoke about religious activities among prisoners, claiming that many inmates turned to intense prayers while serving their sentences. He described prison as a place where people frequently seek divine intervention over their circumstances.

However, he made controversial claims linking some sudden deaths to prayers offered by inmates, although he did not provide evidence to support the allegation.

Baba Ijesha was sentenced in July 2022 over sexual offences involving a minor. The Lagos State Government subsequently clarified that his release followed the completion of his prison sentence and did not amount to an acquittal.

His latest comments have brought renewed attention to his prison experience, with the actor using the opportunity to caution young Nigerians about the consequences of their choices.