The mother of Ilebaye Odiniya, Ms. Lami Calista, has publicly defended her daughter against allegations made by her ex-husband, Emmanuel Odiniya, insisting that the reality TV star has consistently supported her father financially and medically since winning Big Brother Naija All Stars in 2023.
The controversy escalated after Emmanuel Odiniya accused Ilebaye in a viral voice note of neglecting him despite receiving the ₦120 million BBNaija grand prize.
He alleged that she refused to assist with his medical treatment while spending lavishly on social events and friends.
Reacting to the claims, Ms. Calista dismissed the allegations and argued that Ilebaye had already spent millions supporting her father, including financing medical trips abroad.
“When Ilebaye came out of the house, she gave the father N7 million when he was going for his treatment in India,” she said.
“Even when he was going last year, she gave him N5 million as well. The father still called and said the money wasn’t enough. Ilebaye had to send extra N3 million to him.”
According to her, the reality TV star also sends regular financial support and currently handles the education expenses of her younger siblings.
Ms. Calista questioned why Emmanuel Odiniya was allegedly demanding more money from their daughter and accused him of trying to control her BBNaija winnings.
“Must she give him all the money?” she asked.
“This girl wanted to open a shop for me, the father refused, saying until he gives permission, she has no right to open a shop for me.”
She also denied allegations that Ilebaye introduced her younger brother to drugs, describing the accusation as false and harmful.
According to her explanation, the boy only found an empty shisha pen in Ilebaye’s room and took it to school out of curiosity before the misunderstanding occurred.
She stated that the matter was resolved at school and insisted the child was never expelled.
“We were in the CP’s office today and the boy testified that it wasn’t drug,” she said.
“Is Ilebaye stupid to give a 14 year old child drugs?”
Ms. Calista further rejected claims that Ilebaye secretly underwent cosmetic surgery, insisting there was no evidence supporting the allegation.
“It is a lie,” she said.
“Look her old picture and look at her present picture, does it look different?”
The mother alleged that Emmanuel Odiniya became upset after Ilebaye publicly cried for help during the confrontation that led to police intervention and his arrest.
She also claimed he had threatened her in the past, but admitted she never expected the dispute to become so public.
The ongoing family crisis surrounding Ilebaye has generated intense reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the deeply personal accusations and counteraccusations now circulating publicly.
Meanwhile, the Federal Capital Territory Police Command previously confirmed that all parties involved sustained injuries during the confrontation and received medical attention while investigations continue.
