The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has arrested the father of 2023 Big Brother Naija winner, Ilebaye Odiniya, following allegations of physical assault at a residence in Abuja.
The suspect, identified as Emmanuel Odiniya, was reportedly taken into custody in the early hours of Saturday after police responded to a distress call from Royal Anchor Estate in Wuye, Abuja.
In a statement issued by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the command confirmed that officers were deployed to the scene shortly after midnight following reports that the reality TV star was being assaulted by her father.
According to the statement, “On the 9th of May, 2026, at about 12:00 a.m., the FCT Police Command responded to a distress call from Royal Anchor Estate, Wuye, Abuja, reporting an ongoing physical assault on Ms Ilebaye Odiniya Emmanuel by her father, Hon. Emmanuel Odiniya.”
Adeh explained that operatives from the Wuye Division, alongside personnel from the Department of Operations, were immediately dispatched to the location.
“The command’s Police Public Relations Officer was also present to monitor the operation,” she added.
The police spokesperson disclosed that officers initially encountered difficulty accessing the residence because the gate to the compound was locked.
“After several attempts, access was gained into the compound. Ms Ilebaye Odiniya, who was found with visible bruises, was rescued alongside her brothers and rushed to NNPC Hospital, Abuja, where she received medical attention,” the statement said.
The police further confirmed that Emmanuel Odiniya remains in custody while investigations continue into the incident.
“Hon. Emmanuel Odiniya is currently in police custody, while a thorough investigation is ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident,” Adeh stated.
The development comes after growing public concern sparked by an emotional live video shared by Ilebaye, in which she appeared distressed and allegedly pleaded for help while showing visible swelling on her face.
In the viral footage, the BBNaija star was seen crying and calling for assistance, prompting reactions from fans and social media users.
