The arrest of Nollywood actor, Olanrewaju James aka Baba Ijesha, by the Lagos State Police for allegedly defiling a minor has elicited mixed reactions.
The Nation reports Lagos Police spokesman CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi noted the 48-year-old actor was arrested after a defilement case was reported by Princess Adekola Adekanye at Sabo Police Station on April 19.
The case was transferred to the gender unit of the state CID, Panti, Yaba for proper investigation.
The statement also alleged based on preliminary findings, the actor, who is popular for his roles in many Yoruba films, started assaulting the victim sexually when she was seven years old
Reacting to the news, many fans expressed disappointment over his actions describing it as “highly disappointing”.
Chief Press Secretary to Governor Gboyega Akosile said: “This is not a good news out of the Lagos State @PoliceNG Command, which announced the arrest of popular Nollywood actor, Olarenwaju James aka Baba Ijesha, for allegedly defiling a minor. He has confessed to the crime. A CCTV captured him in the complainant’s house.”
Arowolek said: “This is highly disappointing from a public person like ‘Baba Ijesha’. I believe that peadophiles are sick people but the law must take its course.”
Adeyemi Ibironke tweeted: “Defilement of minors – male and female is and has always been a serious problem. Hopefully, @PoliceNG would do a proper investigation and where culpable, prosecute to the fullest extent of the law.”
Ola Olomola stated: “So this filthy man had been defiling her from the age of 7ans even confessed to the crime! He should be barred from Yoruba Nollywood forever and jailed.”
Olojede Sandra said “Lack of self-control can make you lose all you have built in one day. This is the case of Baba Ijesha.”
Oluwasegun Hassan tweeted: “Omo, this baba Ijesha issue is saddening. Imagine the number of kids in Yoruba households around the county that have developed love for him for his comics in movies.
“Nevertheless, I hope that he is charged and served duly in the court of law.”
@lollylarry1 said: “He just killed his career… Kai!”