Actress and podcaster Biola Adebayo has apologised following widespread backlash over her recent interview with actor Baba Ijesha.
The interview, aired on her YouTube show Talk To B, drew criticism after Baba Ijesha claimed he was set up in the sexual assault case that led to his imprisonment and revisited his past relationship with Iyabo Ojo.
In a video statement shared on her Instagram page on Tuesday, Adebayo explained that the actor had earlier declined her offer to grant an interview to apologise or clarify issues surrounding the case.
She stated that she had approached him after his release from prison with the option of using the platform to address the controversy, but he initially said he was not ready.
Adebayo added that she had expected the actor to apologise during the interview but noted that it was not her role as an interviewer to condemn him, stressing that her platform accommodates diverse perspectives.
The actress emphasised that she asked appropriate questions during the interview and clarified that the intention was not to exonerate Baba Ijesha or justify the allegations against him.
She further stated that she does not support or condone sexual abuse, describing herself as a strong advocate for the protection of children.
Adebayo also dismissed claims that the interview was aimed at tarnishing Iyabo Ojo’s image, maintaining that there was no such intention.
The actress appealed to the public for understanding, noting that she does not support controversies and had no intention of justifying any wrongdoing.
The development has continued to generate reactions, with critics accusing her of providing a platform for the actor to downplay his conviction.
Baba Ijesha was sentenced to five years in prison in July 2022 for sexual assault and indecent treatment of a child.
Following his release, the Lagos State Ministry of Justice clarified that he was not acquitted of the offences and confirmed that his name has been added to the Lagos Sexual Offenders Register.
