Reactions from social media users have continued to flood online platforms following reports of the assault on Ilebaye Odiniya, winner of the 2023 Big Brother Naija All Stars edition, by her father, Emmanuel Odiniya.
The issue generated public outrage on Saturday after the 25-year-old reality star cried out for help during a distressed Instagram Live session.
In the viral video, Ilebaye was seen crying with visible swelling on her face, sparking widespread condemnation across social media.
The Federal Capital Territory Police Command, in a statement, confirmed the arrest of the celebrity’s father, adding that investigations are ongoing and that justice will be served. The police also revealed that Ilebaye is currently receiving treatment in a medical facility in the FCT.
As events continue to unfold, many social media users and celebrities have expressed outrage, prompting renewed conversations about domestic violence.
While some netizens, particularly Ilebaye’s fans, called for a thorough investigation and strict sanctions, others urged calm and family reconciliation, claiming the father was only “disciplining” his child.
Here are some reactions:
@Joselyn Chioma wrote: “Growing up, I remember that once you become an adult, your parents no longer touch you no matter what. So he should be in jail.”
@Sylver Chris said: “Nobody is asking what really happened. Everybody is busy blaming the father without knowing what led to the beating.”
@Mabel Ubor said: “You said we should not put mouth, but you’re the one doing it.”
@Adetokunbo Omotolani commented: “The mother should appeal the judgement and get custody of the kids. It shows how abusive he was towards their mom.”
@Mrsblic Given said: “Let him face the law. Thank God, Ilebaye. Get well soon.”
@Cential Samuel commented: “No father can beat you up like this just for asking a question unless he is mentally unstable.”
Another user wrote: “By her mom’s narration, it seems she was aware she was going to see her dad and likely put some words in her head, which may have triggered his actions. She overstepped her boundaries and probably painted the father as the devil and the mom as the angel.”
@Lilian Amaechi wrote: “Okay, so the man is above the law? They cannot put him behind bars?”
@lionelelizabeth49 stated: “Women should learn to choose their partners wisely. I can tolerate anything but putting your hands on my body — that marks the end of the relationship. I don’t like stress at all.”
@djordana05 said: “She must have done something that led to that. Why arrest the man? Na her papa, not boyfriend.”
@estee_properties wrote: “Imagine what the mum must have gone through. This trauma will not leave her anytime soon. He should be jailed and not released.”
However, BBNaija Level Up winner (2022), Ijeoma Otabor, popularly known as Phyna, slammed those condemning the father.
In an Instagram Live session, Phyna said the issue is a family matter and urged netizens to be mindful of their comments.
“People should be mindful of what they say about this Ilebaye and her father case. It’s a family thing,” she said.
