The father of Ilebaye Odiniya, Emmanuel Odiniya, has spoken publicly following his arrest over the family confrontation that sparked concern nationwide after the reality star appeared distressed during an emotional Instagram Live session.
The incident gained public attention after Ilebaye cried for help during a late-night livestream from her residence in Abuja.
The Federal Capital Territory Police Command later confirmed Emmanuel Odiniya’s arrest after officers responded to the distress situation.
In a voice note now circulating online, Emmanuel attempted to explain the circumstances surrounding the altercation, insisting that the issue should not be interpreted as a lack of love for his daughter.
“I want to put the records straight that what led to that incident was not that I don’t love my daughter. She is one of my best children,” he said.
According to him, he played a major role in supporting Ilebaye during her participation in Big Brother Naija All Stars.
“During her time in the Big Brother Naija house, I contributed a lot. I stood by my daughter and made sure people voted for her massively,” he claimed.
He further alleged that their relationship became strained after she won the reality show in 2023.
“After she came out and won, she changed. Ilebaye stopped listening to me,” he alleged.
Emmanuel also made several additional allegations during the recording, including claims of family disagreements, financial issues, and prior confrontations between the parties.
He alleged that Ilebaye had physically attacked him in the past and claimed the latest incident escalated after both sides became physically aggressive during an argument.
The father also accused the reality star of neglecting him despite his health challenges and criticized some of her personal lifestyle choices.
Despite the accusations, he repeatedly maintained that he still loves his daughter and hopes for reconciliation.
“I still love my daughter deeply. I want her to change and do better. I ask for prayers from Nigerians,” he said.
Meanwhile, police authorities confirmed that multiple members of the family sustained injuries during the confrontation.
According to police spokesperson Josephine Adeh, all parties involved, including Emmanuel, Ilebaye, and her younger brothers, were receiving medical treatment.
“The man is in the hospital; he is sick. All of them were badly injured and are all in the hospital,” she said.
Police also disclosed that the younger siblings were placed under protective custody while investigations continue.
The situation has sparked widespread online reactions, with many fans expressing concern about the emotional and physical well-being of everyone involved.
Some social media users have called for privacy and professional family intervention rather than public blame, while others continue debating the conflicting narratives emerging from both sides.
Ilebaye became widely known after winning the 2023 edition of Big Brother Naija All Stars, becoming the third female winner in the show’s history after Mercy Eke and Phyna.
As of now, Ilebaye herself has not released a detailed public response to the latest allegations made by her father.
