Fresh drama has erupted around 2023 Big Brother Naija winner, Ilebaye Odiniya, after the Federal Capital Territory Police Command confirmed that the reality TV star and her two younger brothers have been moved into protective custody following a violent altercation involving their father, Emmanuel Odiniya.
The disturbing incident gained public attention after a viral video surfaced online showing the BBNaija star in tears with visible facial swelling while calling for help during the confrontation at the family’s residence in Royal Anchor Estate, Wuye, Abuja. Police spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, said officers responded to a distress call around midnight on May 9 over an alleged assault on the reality star by her father.
According to the police, operatives from the Wuye Division and the Department of Operations stormed the residence but initially could not gain access because the gate was locked. Adeh said officers eventually entered the compound around 2:30 a.m. and rescued Ilebaye alongside her brothers, Godson, 14, and Devin, 10, before rushing them to NNPC Hospital Abuja for treatment.
The police further disclosed that Ilebaye, her siblings, and their father, who also reportedly sustained injuries during the confrontation, were later transferred to Yabisam Hospital, Lugbe. “The rescued siblings are currently in police protective custody, contrary to circulating publications online, while their father, who is also receiving medical treatment, remains in police custody,” Adeh stated.
Meanwhile, the children’s mother, Mrs. Lami, who is reportedly estranged from her husband, claimed the crisis started when Ilebaye visited the house to see her younger brothers and discuss plans for her 24th birthday celebration. She alleged that tensions escalated after the father accused the reality star of being influenced by her mother.
The shocking family drama has reignited public attention on the long-running domestic dispute surrounding the Odiniya family following the reported collapse of the couple’s 32-year marriage. Police said investigations into the incident are ongoing and all parties involved would be questioned after they are certified medically stable by doctors.
