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The father of former Big Brother Naija winner Ilebaye Odiniya has spoken publicly following the controversy surrounding allegations of domestic abuse involving the reality star.
The incident gained widespread attention after Ilebaye appeared in an emotional Instagram Live session alleging that she was assaulted at her father’s residence in Royal Anchor Estate, Wuye, Abuja. In the viral video, the reality TV personality was seen crying and visibly distressed, with noticeable swelling on her face as she called for help.
Reacting to the backlash that followed, Emmanuel Odiniya shared his side of the story, appealing to Nigerians to forgive both him and his daughter while urging the public to allow the family resolve the issue privately.
According to Emmanuel, he had always been supportive of Ilebaye’s ambitions long before she became famous through the Big Brother Naija reality show. He explained that he stood by her during her audition process and continued supporting her throughout her stay in the house, particularly during the All Stars season where she repeatedly faced possible eviction.
He claimed that things changed after she emerged winner of the show, alleging that the reality star gradually became distant and cut off communication with him despite several attempts to reconnect.
Speaking further, Emmanuel alleged that he had advised his daughter to use part of her wealth to support struggling people around her, but claimed she ignored the suggestion. He also dismissed claims surrounding a hotel allegedly linked to Ilebaye, insisting that the property belongs to him and not the reality star.
The father expressed concern over what he described as his daughter’s recent lifestyle and behaviour, accusing her of taking a direction he considers harmful to herself. He further claimed that there had been recurring disagreements between Ilebaye and her mother over the years, which allegedly contributed to tension within the family.
Emmanuel also criticised Ilebaye’s decision to undergo cosmetic surgery, saying he was unhappy with some of her personal choices since attaining fame. He alleged that there had been previous occasions where she physically confronted him during heated arguments.
Addressing the viral assault allegation directly, Emmanuel admitted that he slapped his daughter during the altercation. According to him, the incident happened in a moment of frustration following repeated disagreements between them.
He also accused Ilebaye of neglecting the family financially despite her luxurious lifestyle on social media. Emmanuel claimed that during one of his medical trips to Dubai, he contacted her for assistance but she allegedly told him she did not have money to help him.
He said he was later shocked to see videos online showing her spraying large amounts of cash at a wedding event shortly after declining to support him.
The controversy also extended to issues involving Emmanuel’s estranged wife. He alleged that she often left the family home during disagreements and claimed that Ilebaye initially supported his decision to separate from her mother before later changing her position.
Appealing for peace amid the growing public attention, Emmanuel reportedly said: “I want Nigerians to forgive both of us. I would love us to settle our family issues offline.”
He also disclosed that he had previously been arrested in connection with the incident and later released before receiving another invitation from the police.
Meanwhile, the disturbing video shared by Ilebaye continues to generate strong reactions online, with many social media users expressing concern over the alleged assault and calling for proper investigation into the matter.
In the footage, the reality star appeared emotional and frightened while accusing her father of physically attacking her. Reports circulating online also alleged that she was locked inside the house during the confrontation before eventually seeking help publicly.
The incident has since sparked wider conversations on social media about domestic violence, family conflict, and the emotional pressure faced by celebrities and their families after sudden fame and financial success.
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