The Ooni of Ife has honoured actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, with a chieftaincy title and a brand-new car, months after his release from prison.
The development has quickly become one of the most discussed entertainment stories. Moreover, many Nigerians have taken to social media to express different opinions about the royal honour.
Baba Ijesha personally announced the development on Facebook. Furthermore, he thanked the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, for the warm reception, gifts and recognition extended to him and his wife.
According to the actor, he was conferred with the traditional title of Baba Awada Konge Oduwa during his visit to the palace. He also disclosed that the monarch presented him with a brand-new vehicle as part of the honour.
Sharing his appreciation, Baba Ijesha expressed gratitude to the traditional ruler for the support shown to his family. The announcement has continued to generate widespread debate because it comes after a highly publicised criminal case that attracted national attention.
Meanwhile, the honour follows Baba Ijesha’s release from prison after serving part of his jail sentence for offences involving the sexual assault of a minor.
A Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja had, on July 14, 2022, sentenced the actor to prison after finding him guilty on several charges.
According to court records, Baba Ijesha was first arraigned on June 24, 2021, on six counts. The charges included sexual assault by penetration, indecent treatment of a child, sexual assault of a minor, indecent treatment of a child, sexual assault, and attempted sexual assault by penetration.
The court sentenced him to five years imprisonment on count two, three years on count three, five years on count four and three years on count five.
However, the sentences were ordered to run concurrently. Therefore, he was expected to serve five years in prison.
Baba Ijesha was later released on Saturday, November 15, 2025, after spending about three years in custody.
In addition, his private life attracted public attention after his release. He quietly married celebrity stylist Abiodun Tokunbo, popularly known as CEO Luminee. The couple later welcomed a baby boy named King Kagar Omiyinka.
Furthermore, the latest royal recognition has once again placed Baba Ijesha in the spotlight.
The Ooni of Ife has not publicly explained the reasons behind the conferment beyond the ceremony itself. However, Baba Ijesha maintained that he was deeply grateful for the honour.
