The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Emmanuel Odiniya, father of 2023 Big Brother Naija winner Ilebaye Odiniya, over an alleged assault incident involving the reality television star.
Police spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Saturday, revealing that officers responded to an emergency call from Royal Anchor Estate in Wuye, Abuja, during the early hours of the day.
According to the statement, authorities received reports that Ilebaye was being physically attacked by her father at the residence.
“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,” the statement said.
Following the report, a patrol team from Wuye Division, supported by operatives of the Department of Operations, was immediately deployed to the scene.
Adeh explained that officers initially encountered difficulty entering the compound because the gate was locked. After several attempts, access was gained at about 2:30 a.m.
“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,” she added.
The incident drew widespread attention after Ilebaye appeared in an emotional live video on Saturday morning, where she was seen crying and repeatedly calling for help, with swelling visible on her face as some men surrounded her.
Police confirmed that Emmanuel Odiniya remains in custody while a thorough investigation is ongoing.
