Ex-Big Brother Naija winner Ilebaye Odiniya and her family are currently hospitalized following a reported assault by her father, Mr. Emmanuel. The reality TV star triggered reactions online after she made a live video of her father hitting her. The incident led to Ilebaye, her brothers Godson (14) and Devin (10), and their father being rushed to Yabisam Hospital in Lugbe.
Federal Capital Territory Police Public Relations Officer Josephine Adeh confirmed the development to Punch: 'The man is in the hospital; he is sick. All of them were badly injured and are all in the hospital. We've not released anybody.' Adeh explained that the siblings were rescued by Area Commander Metro ACP Ufomadu Georglyn and taken to hospital with their father, who also sustained injuries. The siblings are currently in police protective custody, while Mr. Emmanuel remains in police custody pending investigations.
Public Reaction and Support
The viral livestream sparked widespread concern among fans and colleagues. Fellow BBNaija star Beauty Tukura reassured fans that Ilebaye was safe: 'She's no longer in harm's way. Thank God… Ilebaye is fine, and she'll tell her story in her time.' Venita Akpofure also reacted strongly, condemning violence against children: 'As a father, there is absolutely no reason for some kind of violence towards your own children… ESPECIALLY the girl children. It's so traumatic and does psychological damage beyond repair.'
Police Investigation
The FCT Police Command had earlier confirmed Emmanuel's arrest over the alleged assault. Investigations are ongoing, with questioning set to begin once all parties are medically stable. Earlier reports about Mr. Emmanuel's health condition made headlines shortly after he was arrested.
This incident follows previous controversies involving Ilebaye, including her clapping back at critics after reaffirming her status as the sole winner of the BBNaija All-Stars edition. She tweeted: 'At the end of the day, there's only one Winner of BBN ALL STARS as far as I'm concerned. So keep talking, while I keep cashing out.' She also shared a video on Snapchat using a dollar bill as a tissue, implying financial success.
