The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Emmanuel Odiniya, father of Ilebaye Odiniya, following an alleged assault incident at his residence in Abuja.
The incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Saturday, May 9, at Royal Anchor Estate in Wuye, Abuja.
Ilebaye had earlier sparked concern online after appearing in an emotional Instagram livestream with a visibly swollen face while crying and pleading for help.
Confirming the development, FCT Police spokesperson Josephine Adeh said officers received a distress report around midnight.
According to the police, a patrol team from the Wuye Division, supported by operatives from the Department of Operations, responded to the scene but initially faced difficulty accessing the compound because the gates were locked.
The command stated that officers also encountered resistance, including the release of aggressive dogs allegedly intended to prevent entry.
Police eventually gained access to the residence around 2:30 a.m. and reportedly found Ilebaye with visible bruises.
She and her younger brothers were later taken to the NNPC Hospital for medical treatment.
Authorities confirmed that Emmanuel Odiniya was taken into custody while investigations into the matter continue.
However, Ilebaye’s mother, Lami Odiniya, later disclosed that he had since been released from police custody.
According to her, the altercation happened when Ilebaye visited her father to see her younger brothers and discuss matters ahead of her 24th birthday.
She alleged that tensions escalated after Emmanuel Odiniya accused the reality star of being influenced by her mother.
Lami also dismissed rumours suggesting Ilebaye was under the influence of drugs during the incident.
She confirmed that the reality TV star has since been discharged from the hospital after receiving treatment.
The incident has continued to generate massive reactions online, with fans and social media users expressing concern over the family dispute and demanding accountability as investigations continue.
