By Olukayode Majekodunmi
The recent conversations surrounding the criminal case of Mr. Olanrewaju James, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, have once again shown how easily misinformation can spread when legal matters are not clearly understood. For a case that has moved through all three tiers of Nigeria’s judicial system, it is crucial that the public relies on verified facts, not assumptions, emotions, or social-media narratives.
This piece provides a simplified and authoritative guide to what has actually happened in the courts, and why clarity is necessary for responsible public discourse.
- The High Court’s Judgment (14 July 2022)
Mr. James was arraigned before the High Court of Lagos State on several counts relating to events alleged to have occurred in two separate periods—2013–2014, and 2021.
After evaluating the evidence, the High Court:
• Convicted him of sexual assault and indecent treatment of a child,
• Sentenced him to 5 years + 3 years imprisonment respectively, to run concurrently.
• These convictions related to the 2021 incident.
- The Court of Appeal’s Decision (28 June 2024)
Mr. James appealed in Appeal No. CA/LAG/CR/544/2023.
The Court of Appeal gave a mixed outcome:
• He was acquitted of the allegations said to have occurred in 2013–2014 (Counts 2 and 3).
• However, the Court of Appeal affirmed the High Court’s findings regarding the 2021 offences (Counts 4 and 5), including the 5-year and 3-year concurrent sentences.
It is important for the public to understand that this was not a full acquittal only the earlier alleged acts were set aside. The more recent offences were upheld by the appellate court.
- Attempts to Appeal to the Supreme Court
Dissatisfied with the affirmation of the 2021 convictions, Mr. James sought to approach the Supreme Court. • His first appeal in SC/CR/757/2024 was struck out on 29 May 2025 for incompetence, although the Court graciously allowed him the liberty to file a fresh appeal. • He returned to the Supreme Court with a new application for leave to appeal in SC.ML/333/2025. • On 9 October 2025, the Supreme Court dismissed the motion for leave to appeal.
In simple terms, the Supreme Court refused to entertain a further appeal. The effect is that the judgment of the Court of Appeal remains the final and binding decision.
- What This Means in Law and Why the Public Should Be Guided
At this stage, the legal position is clear:
• The Court of Appeal’s affirmation of the sexual-assault conviction and concurrent 5-year sentence remains intact and final.
• The Supreme Court has not overturned the conviction.
• There is no order of discharge, no acquittal, and no setting aside of the 2021 conviction by any superior court.
Because criminal jurisprudence demands accuracy, it is dangerous for the public to assume that an acquittal on some counts equals a total vindication. Court decisions must be interpreted with precision, and commentary on sensitive matters especially involving minors requires care, restraint, and respect for the rule of law.
- The Responsibility of Public Commentators and Influencers
Issues of sexual offences especially involving children are emotionally charged. Yet, the justice system depends on informed citizens who understand the difference between:
• Acquittal on some counts,
• Conviction on others,
• And the finality of appellate decisions.
Public commentary must reflect the facts, not distort them. Misinformation can hinder survivors, undermine confidence in the justice system, and create needless controversy.
Conclusion: Facts Must Lead the Conversation
The case of Baba Ijesha has reached its legal conclusion. The Court of Appeal’s affirmation of the conviction stands, and the Supreme Court has declined to reopen the matter.
The public should therefore rely strictly on the judicial record and be guided by what the courts have decided not by rumours, edited clips, or emotional takes.
Nigeria’s justice system works best when its processes are respected and its decisions understood. In matters as sensitive as sexual assault involving minors, clarity and responsibility are essential.
