Vee Iye has revealed why she did not appear in the 2023 Big Brother Naija Allstars edition.
The Nigerian reality star and budding thespian explained that the presence of her former partner, Neo and Tolanibaj on the show forced her to decide she wouldn’t be appearing on the show.
News Round The Call recalls Vee participated in the 2020 Big Brother Naija Lockdown edition where she entered a relationship with Neo. The couple have since broken up.
She said Neo and Tolani’s romantic escapades on the reality show confirmed her suspicion that her ex was involved with her (Tolani) when they were together.
Speaking in the latest episode of the Moni Talks podcast, Vee said when she suspected that Neo and Tolani were romantically involved, her ex told her that she was “paranoid and overthinking” but the BBNaija All Stars show vindicated her.
She said, “Now that we’ve watched Big Brother Naija All Stars, I feel vindicated. I wouldn’t call it vindication. I would call it more of people seeing that there is always gonna be a bigger picture.
“No matter what you think you see, there is something underneath the situation that you don’t know about. Them [Neo and Tolani Baj] going on that show, obviously, brought it out. And that is the reason I did not go on the show.”
She said she also regretted continuing her relationship with Neo after the Big Brother Naija ‘Lockdown’ show in 2020.
“In my honest opinion, it would have been better if we went our separate ways after the house,” Vee said.
She boasted that the feat she achieved wasn’t an easy one, urging her critics not to speak “when winners are speaking.”
Ilebaye
In a recent Instagram live session with fans, Ilebaye said in Pidgin: “People will say, ‘See una winner.’ If e easy, try am. If it is easy to be a winner, try it.
“Do you know what it means to be an All-Star winner? If e easy, oya, do am. E no easy jare. Please, when winners are speaking, don’t speak.”
Since winning the reality show, the self-styled ‘Gen Z Baddie’ has been a subject of criticism, especially for her social media behaviour and fashion sense.
Ilebaye Odiniya won the 2023 Big Brother Naija Allstars competition.
The Nigerian reality star has tackled fellow Big Brother Naija Allstars finalist, Cynthia Nwadiora who is better known as Cee C after she demeaned her success on the grand stage.
It would be recalled Cee C finished as a runner-up at the 2023 BBNaija Level Up edition, the Nigerian reality star has come out to state that she is not impressed with Ilebaye’s recent achievement.
Cross, a Nigerian reality star has stated that his father was murdered when he was at a relatively tender age.
The Nigerian reality star whose real name is Ikechukwu Sunday Okonkwo in a recent interview on Arise TV stated that losing his father at a tender age made him not to take things to heart.
Speaking during the session, Cross mentioned that himself alongside his siblings were singlehandedly raised by their mother.
He said, “I don’t hold grudges. I got that part of love from my mum and siblings. After my dad got assassinated, it was more or less like we need to protect ourselves. So, right there, we became one another’s protectors. By sticking together and protecting ourselves, we realised that you shouldn’t take life too deep. You should put it on the surface, and what will happen will happen.”
Ilebayeemerged winner of the recently concluded Big Brother Naija Allstars competition on Sunday, October 1.
The Nigerian reality star has stated in a new interview that most Big Brother Naija Allstars contestants were intimidated by her.
It would be recalled that she was the youngest contestant in the house, as a matter of fact, at the tender age of 22, she is the youngest contestant to win the most watched Nigerian reality show.
However, she went on to win the reality show and walked home with N120 million and a brand new car.
Fielding questions from fans during an Instagram live session, Ilebaye claimed her colleagues may have disregarded her during her reign as Head of House because they were “intimidated” by her.
She said, “I really don’t know why housemates disrespected and didn’t have regard for me during my tenure as Head of House. I just felt maybe they were intimidated.”
Ilebaye Odinaya emerged winner of the 2023 Big Brother Naija Allstars competition on Sunday, October 1.
At the tender age of 22, Ilebaye became the youngest contestant to win the most watched Nigerian reality show. It is important to note that the Kogi state-born Nigerian reality star won the competition on her second trial.
She previously participated in the 2022 Big Brother Naija Level Up competition where she failed to find prominence.
On Tuesday, October 3, the BBNaija Allstars superstar received her N120 million grand prize and she has delivered an inspirational acceptance speech.
Speaking, the residential Gen Z baddie appreciated her fans and members of her family for standing with her throughout her time in the house. She went further to acknowledge the organizers of the Big Brother Naija show.
Ilebaye Acknowledges BBNaija Organizers As She Delivers Heartwarming Acceptance Speech
Speaking, Ilebaye had this to say,
“Thank you guys so much, I’m really happy to be your winner and to my housemates, thank you, thank you, guys, so much. I promise to make you guys proud, I promise not to disappoint you guys. I promise to make sure I make good use of the money, thank you, guys, so much, I love you guys.”
Before giving her acceptance speech, Ilebaye noted that reality has not fully set in on the fact that she won the show. Speaking to the host Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, she revealed what was going through her mind at the crowning moment when she was announced the winner.
She said, “I’m still trying to adapt to every moment. When I heard my name I was super excited and I couldn’t believe it, then I saw my parents and I was just running towards them. I haven’t slept at all.”
See more photos from the award presentation below.
This Nigerian reality competition series featured contestants living in an isolated house, vying for a substantial cash prize and various material rewards. The show’s outcome depended on avoiding eviction by viewers, who voted for their preferred housemates to stay on the show.
News Round The Clock (NRTC) affirmed that this production, organized by Multichoice Nigeria, had the potential to transform contestants’ lives, propelling them from obscurity to fame if they emerged as winners.
Moreover, this long-standing event has not only produced winners but also elevated many evicted participants to stardom, enabling them to thrive in their chosen careers.
The show, whose eighth season concluded on Sunday, October 1st, 2023, has produced eight winners who either became the talk of the town or faded into obscurity.
NRTC has learned that, in addition to the prize that the winner will receive, there are million naira deals available for other contestants, even if they don’t win the grand prize. This illustrates that they have opportunities to become millionaires.
We, at NRTC, have observed that over the years, many winners, in interviews with the media, have outlined their intentions for spending their money. However, it often turns out that the money is not used judiciously.
Exploring the financial journeys of previous BBNaija champions
Katung Aduwak, the inaugural winner of the 2006 BBNaija season, clinched the coveted $100,000 prize at the age of 26. His post-win journey led him to the Digital Film Academy in New York, where he obtained a directorial degree.
Katung Aduwak. Source: Internet
Even before entering the BBNaija house, Aduwak had a strong passion for filmmaking and production. Currently, he is actively involved in the creation of music videos and TV series. He has become a prominent director for various series and TV shows on Africa Magic.
BBNaija served as a pivotal moment in Aduwak’s life, enabling him to use his prize money to pursue further education in New York, where he excelled and delved deeper into filmmaking. Hailing from Kaduna State, he has established himself as a renowned scriptwriter, producer, and director.
A graduate in Political Science, Aduwak now proudly holds the position of CEO at One O Eight Media and serves as the African Partner for Campfire Media. His journey of success has taken him to prestigious roles, including being a media panelist at the Harvard Africa Business School Forum and holding key positions such as Senior Channel Manager at MTV Base, Senior Creative Director at VIACOM International, and executive director at Chocolate City.
Michael Ejeba, also known as Efe, emerged as the victor in the second season of ‘BBNaija See Gobbe’. Prior to his stint as a contestant, he already had a background as an artist and entertainer.
Michael Ejeba. Source: Internet.
Following his win, Efe, often referred to as Efe Money, remained committed to advancing his music career in the entertainment industry. He collaborated with prominent music figures, including Olamide, Iceprince, and BOJ.
This Nigerian singer, media personality, songwriter, and rapper made the most of his N25 million prize from the BBNaija show, wisely investing it in his ongoing pursuit of his passion even before his reality TV journey began.
Also, Miracle Igbokwe emerged as the winner of BBNaija Season 3, ‘Double Wahala’, held in South Africa. His journey to victory was unique, as from the very outset of the show, Miracle harbored a strong aspiration to become a professional and commercial pilot.
Miracle Igbokwe. Source: Internet.
After securing the grand prize of N25 million, Miracle wisely invested in pursuing a career in aviation. Presently, he proudly holds the title of a Nigerian pilot and achieved a significant milestone by successfully passing his flight instructor examination in the United States of America (USA) in April 2023.
Prior to his stint on BBNaija, Miracle was already enrolled in an aviation school, and his decision to utilize his prize money to complete his training was a testament to his unwavering dedication to his dream of soaring the skies as a pilot.
Did previous winners waste their prizes?
Mercy Eke, the winner of the fourth season of Big Brother Naija ‘Pepper Dem,’ shared her post-win plans for the N30 million prize. Prior to her BBNaija journey, she was a Nigerian media personality, actress, video vixen, and entrepreneur hailing from Imo State. Remarkably, she became the first female to win the reality show.
Mercy Eke. Source: NRTC Library.
Eke, who is also the founder of MNM Luxury, displayed determination by auditioning for the show on four separate occasions before securing a spot as a contestant. She gained recognition for her appearances in numerous music videos and as a vixen in Davido and Ichaba’s “Baby Mama” music video.
Following her victory, she embraced various roles, becoming an ambassador and influencer for multiple organizations. She even made her acting debut in the Nollywood film “Fate of Alakada” and participated in short comedy skits alongside prominent Nigerian comedians.
Her future plans included investments in real estate and expanding her luxury clothing line.
Notably, at the age of 33, Mercy Eke added an impressive collection of cars to her assets, including models like the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon, Mercedes-Benz Maybach, Range Rover Velar, IVM G40 SUV, and Mercedes GLK350. It’s worth mentioning that other BBNaija winners have also been seen with an array of cars.
Similarly, Olamilekan Agbeleshe, known as Laycon, started his career as a songwriter and rapper before entering as a contestant in Big Brother Naija season 5.
Olamilekan Agbeleshe, known as Laycon. Source: NRTC Library.
Laycon emerged as the winner of Big Brother Naija season 5 and has since held the role of youth ambassador for Ogun State, Nigeria, starting from October 6, 2020. He also became a member of the Grammys Recording Academy voting committee.
Following his victory, Laycon returned to his music career, collaborating with industry legends and releasing two singles: “Wagwan” and “Fall For Me” featuring YKB. “Wagwan” debuted at number five on Billboard’s top ten global thriller chart. On April 1, 2021, Laycon announced the release of his first album, scheduled for April 30, 2021.
On April 30, 2021, Laycon released his album titled “Shall We Begin,” which peaked at number two on Nigeria’s top album chart and number one on the Nigeria iTunes album chart.
The NRTC confirmed that Laycon had wisely utilized his N85 million grand prize as he continued to soar in the music industry, releasing several songs and his third album, “Bioba,” consisting of 13 tracks in July 2023.
Hazel Oyeze Onou, widely known as Whitemoney, emerged as the winner of the sixth season of BBNaija. Prior to his stint on the reality TV show, Whitemoney had a career as a singer and songwriter. His victory earned him a grand prize worth ₦90 million, and he had already made a mark in the music industry with collaborations featuring prominent artists.
Hazel Oyeze Onou, widely known as Whitemoney. Source: NRTC Library.
Whitemoney, originally from Kaduna State, ventured to Lagos in search of opportunities. His success and prize on the show also paved the way for numerous endorsement deals.
On the other hand, Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, known as Phyna, entered the reality TV show with a background as an actress, model, and hype woman. Phyna secured the coveted ₦100 million grand prize, making her the second female winner, following in the footsteps of Mercy Eke who won three years prior.
Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, known as Phyna. Source: NRTC Library.
Phyna’s journey began in college, where she embarked on a career in modeling and was subsequently signed by a modeling agency. Since her victory, she has passionately pursued her dreams in both modeling and acting.
While specific details about how Phyna, hailing from the Esan tribe in Edo State but born in Lagos State, utilized her prize remain elusive, a video clip showed her gifting her parents a brand-new Lexus Jeep. Additionally, she has sealed several lucrative endorsement deals and continues to thrive in her acting career.
Should Ilebaye follow in the footsteps of former female winners or forge a different path?”
The eighth season of BBNaija, which featured Ilebaye Odiniya as the winner, with a grand prize of 120 million naira, is no longer a recent development.
Ilebaye. Source: NRTC Library.
During the 10-week duration of Season 8 known as All Stars, Ilebaye, known as the ‘GenZ Baddie,’ faced bullying within the BBNaija House.
Before joining the Reality TV show, Ilebaye pursued a degree in Criminology and Security Studies at Salem University, Kogi State. She also had experience as a model and had previously appeared in TV dramas produced by Wale Adenuga Productions, such as “Papa Ajasco,” “Super Story,” and “Nnenna and Friends,” showcasing her skills as an actress.
Now, at the age of 22, Ilebaye not only aims to continue her modeling and acting career but also needs to consider various investment opportunities to secure her financial future, in addition to her N120 million grand prize.
Ilebaye investing in property can provide rental income and long-term appreciation as well as diversifying her portfolio by investing in stocks and bonds to build wealth over time.
Ilebaye. Source: NRTC Library.
She can start a business because entrepreneurship can be a rewarding venture if she has a viable business idea instead of copying others in buying luxurious cars and others.
Moreso, she can invest in her own skills and education to increase her earning potential— ensure she has a solid financial cushion for unexpected expenses.
In the same vein, she must consider giving back to her community or supporting causes she is passionate about due to the current economic status of the country.
While Ilebaye should start saving for retirement early through pension plans or IRAs she should as well explore opportunities in the entertainment industry, such as music or acting.
Ilebaye. Source: NRTC Library.
However, she should consult a financial advisor for personalized investment advice based on her goals and risk tolerance as well as remembering creating a well-balanced investment strategy and seek professional guidance to make informed decisions based on financial goals and circumstances.
Ilebaye Precious Odiniya, also known as Baye or Gen-Z Baddie, is a Nigerian reality TV star, model, and criminologist. She is best known for winning the 8th season of Big Brother Naija, an African reality TV show.
Ilebaye was born and raised in Kogi State, Nigeria. She attended Federal Government Girls College, Kabba, for her secondary school education and Salem University in Lokoja, where she studied Criminology and Security Studies.
Ilebaye started her career as a model. She has appeared in several TV shows and beauty pageants. In 2021, she won the Finest Girl Democracy Nigeria (FGDN) Beauty pageant.
In 2023, Ilebaye entered the 7th season of Big Brother Naija (Level Up) as the fourth housemate. She was evicted on the third week. However, she was reintroduced as the 13th housemate for the all star season on July 23, 2023. During the season finale of the show on October 1, 2023, she was declared the winner.
Ilebaye is a popular figure on social media, with over 1 million followers on Instagram. She is known for her outspoken personality and her sense of style.
In addition to her work in entertainment, Ilebaye is also a passionate advocate for education and women’s empowerment. She has spoken out about the importance of girls staying in school and pursuing their dreams. She is also a role model for many young women in Nigeria.
Ilebaye’s Impact
Ilebaye’s victory on Big Brother Naija is a significant moment for Nigerian reality TV. She is the first winner of the show to come from a criminology background. Her win is also a testament to her talent, determination, and resilience.
We have a champion, small pepper,🌶 a conqueror and a lion in the Gen Z baddie, Ilebaye. Her journey in the #BBNaijaAllStars has been nothing short of incredible. Purrrr #BBNaija
Ilebaye is a role model for many young women in Nigeria. She shows that it is possible to achieve your dreams, no matter what your background is. She is also a strong advocate for education and women’s empowerment.
Ilebaye is a rising star in the Nigerian entertainment industry. She is a talented and ambitious young woman who is making a name for herself. She is also a positive role model for young women in Africa.
Ilebaye Precious Odiniya is a talented and ambitious young woman who is making a name for herself in the entertainment industry.
She is also a positive role model for young women in Africa. She is a shining example of what is possible when you set your mind to something and never give up.
Ilebaye on Sunday, October 1 went against some of the most notable Big Brother Naija contestants and emerged victorious. She was able to defeat the Big Brother Naija Pepper Dem winner, Mercy Eke and the runner-up of the 2018 BBNaija Double Wahala edition, Cee C. Both finished second and third respectively at the recently concluded BBNaija Allstars competition.
Ilebaye against all odds came out on top at the conclusion of the 2023 Big Brother Naija Allstars competition. The 22-year-old residential Gen Z baddie will be going home with the grand prize worth N120 million after she was able to enthrall the hearts of viewers across the globe.
It would be important to note that Ilebaye’s recent success means she is the third female contestant to emerge winner of the most watched Nigerian reality show.
At the 2022 Big Brother Naija Level Up edition, Ilebaye Odinaya was the first contestant to leave the show. She was eliminated two weeks into the competition, hence, she failed to unravel her skillset, talent and personality before the mainstream audience.
However, she was involved a highly publicized feud with fellow housemate, Beauty Tukura. The conflict witnessed the disqualification of Beauty for unruly behaviour.
Ilebaye who was 21 at the time was not talked about much after she left the show as Phyna went on to win the competition after ten weeks.
A Second Chance… BBNaija Allstars
On Sunday, the residential Gen Z Baddie could not believe she would emerge winner of the 2023 BBNaija Allstars competition. (Photo Credit: Twitter/X)
At the commencement of the 2023 Big Brother Naija Allstars competition, viewers did not predict Ilebaye to remain until the final weeks of the competition. It is safe to write she was simply seen as the underdog; she was not perceived as a threat to the major contestants.
For the unbeknownst, the concept of the BBNaija Allstars competition is to garner previous contestants of the most watched Nigerian reality show under one roof. The competition unlike the previous editions featured competitors who have won the show and also finished as finalists.
As stated earlier, Ilebaye was eliminated from the house in the first eviction show, hence, viewers rarely got a glimpse of what she had to offer. Interestingly, the BBNaija Allstars competition was able to present her with the opportunity to show the world what she was made of.
The Calm before the storm: The eventual winner stands next to top contestant, Mercy Eke (Photo Credit: X)
Her social media management team were able to pinpoint some of her relevant highlights in the house and also, she was able to contest against the top dogs. Earlier in the show, she engaged in a fierce altercation with Cee C, one of the most popular contestants in the house.
Ilebaye also engaged in a heated argument with Mercy Eke, a woman who was looking to win the competition for the second time.
In the end, Ilebaye was able to overcome the top dogs by becoming winner of the show at the tender age of 22. It is important to note that she is also the youngest person to emerge winner of the show, indeed, her victory means she will serving as the face of a new generation of viewers.
Once again, congratulations to Ilebaye, it would be interesting to see where she goes from here.
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