The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has placed 2023 Big Brother Naija winner Ilebaye Odiniya and her two younger brothers in protective custody following a violent incident involving their father, Honourable Emmanuel Odiniya. The altercation occurred at the family's residence in Royal Anchor Estate, Wuye, Abuja, after police received a distress call around 12:00 a.m. on May 9, 2026. According to FCT Police Public Relations Officer SP Josephine Adeh, officers responded to reports of an ongoing physical assault on Ilebaye by her father.
Upon arrival, police found the residence gate locked and gained access at approximately 2:30 a.m. Ilebaye, 27, was discovered with visible bruises and rescued alongside her brothers, Godson Emmanuel Odiniya, 14, and Devin Emmanuel Odiniya, 10. All three were initially taken to NNPC Hospital Abuja for medical attention before being transferred to Yabisam Hospital, Lugbe. Their father, who also sustained injuries, was taken to the same hospital and remains in police custody.
SP Adeh confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that questioning will begin once medical doctors certify all parties as stable. She dismissed online reports about Ilebaye's whereabouts, stating she is under police protection. The incident gained public attention after a video circulated showing Ilebaye in tears with facial swelling during the confrontation.
The children's mother, Mrs. Lami, said the incident began when Ilebaye visited to see her brothers and discuss plans for her 24th birthday. The discussion turned into an argument when her father allegedly accused her of being influenced by her mother. Mrs. Lami, who is estranged from her husband, disclosed that a court had previously awarded custody of the two boys to their father.
Ilebaye's father is in custody for allegedly assaulting her, yet he legally holds custody of her younger brothers. This raises questions about the safety of children under his care despite prior court rulings. The same household where Ilebaye suffered visible injuries is where her brothers remain legally placed. No explanation has been given for how such an environment was approved for child custody.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
