Police Release Ilebaye Odiniya’s Father After Alleged Family Dispute

According to Ireporter Online, the Federal Capital Territory Police Command has released Hon. Emmanuel Odiniya, the father of former Big Brother Naija All Stars winner Ilebaye Odiniya, after he was briefly detained over an alleged domestic dispute.

It was gathered that Odiniya was taken into custody at the Wuye Divisional Police Headquarters on Saturday, May 9, following a viral video showing Ilebaye in distress with visible facial injuries. His estranged wife, Mrs Lami Odiniya, confirmed his release, noting that the incident stemmed from ongoing family tensions linked to the dissolution of their 32-year marriage.

Mrs Odiniya alleged that the confrontation began when Ilebaye visited her father’s residence at Royal Anchor Estate to see her younger brothers ahead of her 24th birthday. She explained that the situation escalated into a disagreement over parenting decisions and the welfare of the children.

According to her account, the two younger boys, aged 11 and 14, were initially handed over to her following Odiniya’s arrest around 2:30 a.m., but were later returned to their father’s residence after police intervention. She stated that the decision was based on an existing court order, which the authorities moved to enforce.

“At about 9:00 a.m., the Police ordered the boys’ return to their father’s home, citing the existing court order,” she was quoted as saying.

Reports also indicate that police officers had earlier intervened to rescue Ilebaye and her siblings from the residence after encountering resistance, including security dogs. Following the incident, Ilebaye was taken to the NNPC Hospital in Abuja for medical attention.