In a report by Punch Newspapers, popular Nollywood actress and podcaster Biola Adebayo is facing significant public backlash following her recent interview with Olanrewaju Omiyinka, better known as Baba Ijesha. The interview, featured on her show “Talk To B,” has ignited a firestorm of criticism across social media platforms like X and Instagram.
Nigerians have expressed outrage that the podcaster gave a platform to the actor, who was recently released after serving a jail term for sexual offences involving a minor. During the session, Baba Ijesha claimed the incident leading to his conviction was a “setup” and suggested it was part of a “movie preparation,” statements that many viewers found deeply insensitive and harmful.
Critics argue that such interviews risk re-traumatizing victims and downplaying the gravity of judicial convictions. Biola Adebayo has defended her decision by stating that the public deserves to hear his side of the story now that he has served his sentence, but the explanation has done little to quell the “cancel culture” momentum building against her.
The controversy highlights the growing tension in the Nigerian digital space regarding the ethics of “redemption” interviews for individuals convicted of serious crimes. As the video continues to circulate, several brands associated with the actress are being tagged by activists calling for accountability.
* “Nollywood actress and podcaster Biola Adebayo has come under intense criticism… for giving the actor a platform to downplay his conviction,” noted Samuel Omotere for Punch Online.
* “Outrage as Nigerians react to Biola Bayo’s interview with Baba Ijesha… many called it an insult to justice,” shared Legit.ng on their official Facebook news feed.
Echotitbits take: This is a classic “ethics vs. views” dilemma in the podcasting era. While Adebayo likely sought a high-traffic “exclusive,” the choice of subject matter is a PR nightmare in a climate increasingly sensitive to gender-based violence. Watching her follower count and sponsorship deals over the next 48 hours will be crucial; she may be forced to take the episode down to save her brand reputation.
Source: Punch Newspapers — https://punchng.com/biola-adebayo-faces-backlash-over-baba-ijesha-interview/March 23, 2026
Photo Credit: Punch Newspapers
