Ilebaye Precious Odiniya, who is popularly referred to as Ilebaye, emerged winner of the Big Brother Naija All Stars reality TV show. Born and raised in Okpo, Olamaboro Council of Kogi State, she attended Federal Government Girls’ College, Kabba, and Salem University in Lokoja, where she studied Criminology and Security Studies. The 22-year-old reality TV star, model and actress burst into limelight as the fourth housemate in BBNaija Season 7, tagged, ‘Level Up’, where she captivated viewers with her vibrant personality and undeniable acting talent. From a young age, Ilebaye showcased her flair for the performing arts, gracing screens with memorable appearances in iconic Wale Adenuga Productions, ‘Papa Ajasco’ and ‘Nnenna and Friends’. In 2021, she won the Finest Girl Democracy Nigeria (FGDN) beauty pageant. Her stint in the BBNaija House during Season 7 provided a platform for Ilebaye to showcase her resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment to her dreams. Although she was the third housemate to be evicted, her impact in the house and on the hearts of fans was undeniable. For her second coming into the BBNaija All Stars Show, she was the 13th housemate to be introduced. Ilebaye, who is also known as Gen Z Baddie by other housemates, amassed millions of fans and polled the highest votes to defeat other finalists including Cross, Adekunle, Pere, CeeC, and Mercy Eke to cling the 120-million-naira grand prize. In this chat, the third female to ever emerge winner of the show shares her excitement.
Did you ever dream of or imagine becoming the winner?
I never imagined or dreamt of it.
What are the strategies you think worked for you in the house?
I didn’t use any strategy. The only strategy I used was praying to God.
When you came on to the show, how far did you think you would get to?
In the Big Brother Level Up House, I stayed just three weeks. I felt like they were bringing many stars (at the Big Brother All Stars House) and I was one of the least popular of the housemates, and I felt I would stay just two or three weeks, maximum. I didn’t know I was going to become the winner.
When you came out, what was the most surprising thing you heard about yourself after the show?
I haven’t really gone into that. I’ve just been overwhelmed and in my room, still thanking God and feeling the emotions, gratitude and the surprise that I emerged as the winner. I haven’t even gone into detail of the things happening in the world right now. I will get into it, but I’m sure it’s all love and light. No hate, for me to have won.
Do you have any regrets about anything that happened in the house?
I don’t. My only regret is that I wish I danced so much every Saturday, because I was the life of the party, but I didn’t think I really gave them back-to-back. Everything was fun and adventurous in the house. So, I really don’t have any regrets. Maybe, when I annoyed some of the housemates, but not on purpose.
What is your current relationship status with Doyin?
We’re cool. She’s my guy.
What lessons have you learnt having won, being on the show for a second time and coming out of the house?
I just feel like you should never underestimate yourself. Just be powerful. Just continue believing in yourself, no matter the outcome. Even if you were a failure before, never give up. Just believe in yourself. You might have been a failure, but you have grace in you. Your time will always come.
What’s your impression about the ‘Gen Z Baddie’ vibe that everybody is ascribing to you?
It means so much for me. I’m young and everything. It’s more a call to my young people. Let’s be seen, let’s be loud!
Has winning added anything to you, aside from the money?
Yes, of course! Feel the love. The love I’m getting from people is enough.
If Big Brother comes calling some other time, are you going to get on this platform again?
Have you been seeing my diary sessions? I want to keep hearing Big Brother’s voice. Not for the money, just to keep hearing his voice.
What is next for you?
I will build my empire, and start my future. Make good use of the N120 Million.
How are you going to achieve this?
Don’t worry. You’ll see when the time comes.
How about the kiss with Cross?
I don’t regret anything we did in the house. I kissed him because I wanted to. I don’t regret it.
