The father of former Big Brother Naija winner Ilebaye Odiniya has publicly addressed the ongoing controversy involving his daughter, giving his account of the family dispute that recently sparked widespread reactions online.
Speaking amid the fallout from a viral video showing an altercation between both parties, Ilebaye’s father said he had strongly supported her during her participation in the reality show, especially during the All Stars edition.
According to him, he and several of his associates invested money, time and effort into ensuring she remained in the competition whenever she faced possible eviction.
He claimed that after winning the show, Ilebaye gradually became distant and stopped communicating with him despite repeated attempts to reconnect with her.
The father alleged that he wanted them to appreciate individuals who supported her journey during the competition but said his efforts to reach her were unsuccessful.
He also claimed he advised the reality star to dedicate part of her winnings to helping the less privileged, but said the suggestion was ignored.
Speaking further, he disputed claims surrounding a hotel frequently displayed by Ilebaye on social media, insisting that the property belonged to him.
He expressed concern over what he described as her current lifestyle, alleging that he feared she was heading in a dangerous direction.
The father also criticised cosmetic procedures allegedly carried out by the reality star, including fillers and a Brazilian Butt Lift, saying he believed she was too young for such surgeries.
Addressing family-related issues, he alleged that there had been longstanding disagreements between Ilebaye and her mother, adding that he often attempted to mediate between them.
According to him, he eventually felt disrespected by his daughter and claimed she became physically aggressive during some confrontations.
Reacting to the viral assault incident, he admitted that he hit her during an argument but claimed it happened in anger following repeated disagreements and alleged acts of disrespect.
He also disclosed that he had been battling health challenges, including high blood pressure, and had received medical treatment in United Arab Emirates.
According to him, he sought financial assistance from Ilebaye during the period but was disappointed after later seeing videos of her spraying cash publicly at a wedding ceremony.
The father further spoke about his strained relationship with Ilebaye’s mother, alleging that she frequently left their home for long periods before returning after interventions from religious leaders.
He claimed Ilebaye initially supported his decision to divorce her mother before later opposing it.
Appealing to Nigerians, he asked for forgiveness for both himself and his daughter, saying the family hoped to resolve the matter privately.
He confirmed that he was arrested after the incident but said efforts had been made to settle the issue, although the police had invited him again in connection with the matter.
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