The father of Big Brother Naija winner Ilebaye Odiniya, Hon. Emmanuel Godson Odiniya, has explained the reasons behind the alleged physical assault of his superstar daughter, insisting the incident was never motivated by hatred.

Reacting to the ongoing controversy in an emotional audio statement, the Kogi politician, who was reportedly arrested over the incident, said, “I want to put the record straight that what led to that was not that I don’t love my daughter. She was one of my best children.”

According to him, he supported Ilebaye throughout her journey to fame, including her successful participation in the 2023 edition of Big Brother Naija.

“When she told me she wanted to join Big Brother, I accepted it, and I began to work towards it,” he said.

Hon. Odiniya further claimed he mobilised support and votes for his daughter using his political influence and contacts within and outside Nigeria.

“I contributed a lot using my relationship with Nigerians all over and outside to vote for my daughter massively, it’s well over 75%,” he stated.

The politician expressed disappointment over what he described as Ilebaye’s change in attitude after winning the reality show.

“What I was expecting from her wasn’t coming,” he said, alleging that she rarely gave him audience despite repeated attempts to reach her.

He also accused the reality star of ignoring his advice on spending, philanthropy and cosmetic procedures.

“A child of 24/25, she went for surgery to beautify her face, her body, and her bum. Each time I talk to her, she will insult me,” he alleged.