DURBAN – Babes Wodumo’s father has spoken out for the first time on allegations that his chart- topping daughter was allegedly abused by her ex-lover, fellow musician Mampintsha.

Wodumo’s father, Reverend Welcome Simelane, said: “She is older than 21 now. She is independent and a grown woman, she knows what is wrong or right for her. Even if she was to get married without my knowledge, it doesn’t matter because she makes her own decisions.

“As a bishop I always preach about such things. There’s no relationship without problems but it’s up to people to make their own decisions based on what they deem as right. I raised Babes and she is above 21 years old now, she must take a right decision for herself.”

Wodumo, whose real name is Bongekile Simelane, was on Metro FM’s The Drive show with Mo Flava and Masechaba Ndlovu on Friday when the claims were made by Ndlovu. Wodumo said very little and nodded as Ndlovu called out Mandla “Mampintsha” Maphumulo for allegedly physically abusing her.