Ilebaye’s Father Addresses Reports of Rift with BBNaija Star

Emmanuel Odiniya, father of Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) All-Stars winner Ilebaye Odiniya, has publicly addressed the recent altercation involving himself and his daughter.

The incident came to light after a distressing video circulated on social media, showing Ilebaye in tears, visibly swollen, and pleading for help. She was reportedly prevented from leaving her home, and the footage depicted a man striking her from behind while another individual looked on.

In the aftermath, Ilebaye was taken to the NNPC hospital in Abuja for treatment. The Federal Capital Territory Police Command subsequently arrested Emmanuel Odiniya on allegations of assault, confirming that a thorough investigation is underway.

In a voice note shared on Facebook by journalist Jeremiah Ocheme, Emmanuel Odiniya claimed he was provoked during a family dispute. He insisted the confrontation was not motivated by hatred, but rather by frustration over what he described as changes in Ilebaye’s behavior following her reality show victory.

I want to set the record straight: my actions were not because I don’t love my daughter. She is one of my favourite children, he stated, emphasizing his support for Ilebaye during her time on BBNaija. He recounted leveraging his influence and connections to garner votes and support for her.

However, Odiniya alleged that Ilebaye became disrespectful and physically aggressive towards him after the show, and criticized her lifestyle choices, particularly her reported cosmetic surgeries. He claimed she had previously assaulted him, including an incident where she struck him with a hanger, causing him to bleed.

Regarding the recent clash, he explained, She insulted me, hit me first with a hanger, pushed me, and broke an electric lantern on my head.

Odiniya also mentioned his poor health and his unsuccessful attempt to seek financial assistance from Ilebaye for medical treatment. He expressed disappointment after seeing her spend lavishly at a friend’s wedding despite claiming she had no money to offer him.