Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has strongly criticised fellow actor Baba Ijesha over claims that she once entrusted him with the care of her children, describing the assertions as false and misleading.
The controversy follows a recent interview granted by Baba Ijesha, whose real name is Olanrewaju Omiyinka, in which he revisited events surrounding his past and referenced Iyabo Ojo and her children, Festus and Priscilla.
During the interview, the actor claimed that the actress had, at some point, left her children under his supervision when they were younger. He also suggested that he had a level of familiarity with the family, stating that he could not wish her harm despite their differences.
Reacting via a statement, Iyabo Ojo dismissed the claims, insisting that her children were never left alone in his care and were always supervised by nannies or family members, including her late mother.
“My kids have always had nannies or my late mum with them, and they were never alone,” she stated.
The actress further explained that, at the time referenced, she operated a busy business environment in Ilupeju with multiple staff, making it unlikely that she would have personally handled errands or left her children unattended.
“I had several staff, including stylists, sales representatives, and apprentices. It is unlikely I would be the one running errands when I could easily delegate,” she added.
While acknowledging Baba Ijesha as a former senior colleague, Iyabo Ojo stressed that their relationship never extended beyond professional boundaries.
She also used the opportunity to reiterate her stance on the actor’s past conviction, emphasising that the offence involved a minor and should not be downplayed.
“That 14-year-old girl was a minor, and sexual assault is never okay. It is a crime. You should show some remorse,” she said.
Iyabo Ojo went on to issue a firm warning, threatening legal action if Baba Ijesha continues to mention her children in public narratives.
“Take this as a notice to cease and desist from using my children as your cheap bait. It won’t fly,” she warned.
“The court found you guilty based on evidence, so please don’t drag my kids into this. Stop mentioning their names or I will direct my counsel to take appropriate legal steps,” she added.
Baba Ijesha was previously arraigned in 2021 on multiple charges, including sexual assault of a minor. In 2022, a Lagos High Court sentenced him to 16 years in prison, though the sentence ran concurrently. He was released in November 2025 after completing his term.