Calista made the allegation in a video shared on social media, where she addressed a viral recording in which she appeared to disown her daughter.

In the earlier clip, Lami was heard expressing anger at her daughter and warning her never to contact her again.

“Ilebaye don’t look for me… if I die today, you contributed to my death… I disown you today,” she said in the recording.

However, Calista later clarified that the video had been misunderstood, insisting it was part of a planned act between her and Ilebaye due to ongoing family disputes.

She explained that tensions within the family escalated after repeated accusations that Ilebaye was the one responsible for her leaving her husband’s house.

According to her, the situation worsened when her ex-husband allegedly insisted that Ilebaye leave the house as well, and demanded ₦30 million before allowing her return.

She further claimed she pleaded with him to accept their daughter back, promising that the money would be sorted out later.

Calista also appealed to Nigerians not to judge her daughter, insisting that Ilebaye has been going through serious personal and family struggles away from the public eye.

She said the reality star has been under emotional stress and would not have been able to cope without seeking help during difficult moments.

The development comes shortly after reports that the Federal Capital Territory Police Command arrested Emmanuel Odiniya over an alleged assault on Ilebaye at a residence in Wuye, Abuja.

Ekubo reportedly passed away on Monday, May 11, 2026, after a prolonged battle with cancer.

The actor was diagnosed with stage four liver cancer in 2024 and later underwent a transplant. However, his condition reportedly worsened in 2026 when his liver failed again, leading to severe complications. He died hours after being placed on life support.

In an emotional Instagram post, AY, who suggested he was present at the hospital, described Ekubo’s death as deeply painful and still difficult to accept.

He wrote that the late actor was still smiling at the moment of his passing.

“Some losses do not feel real no matter how many times you try to process them. Still struggling with the reality that you are gone, Alex,” AY wrote.

He added: “From the laughter to the conversations, the random moments, the brotherhood, and all the memories we shared in this industry. This one hurts deeply.

“I was there. I saw you still smiling even in death. I saw the tears from friends and family. And honestly, a part of me is still in shock. Rest well my brother. You will be remembered beyond the lights, the cameras, and the fame.”

Another close friend, Godwin Nnadiekwe, also revealed that Ekubo had prepared his will before his passing, a detail he said made the news even more heartbreaking.

“Alex Ekubo. To think you already prepared your will, it’s a heartbreak I can’t quite describe. Rest well, my friend,” he wrote on Instagram.

Meanwhile, the family of the late actor confirmed that he died from complications linked to advanced metastatic kidney cancer. In a statement shared on his official Instagram page, they said he passed away at Evercare Hospital after a brief but courageous battle with the illness.

They described him as a beloved husband, son, brother, and friend, noting that he faced his illness with strength, faith, and hope throughout his final days.

The family also requested privacy as they mourn, adding that details of the funeral arrangements would be announced later.