As controversy continues to surround the online harassment allegations made by Canada-based Instagram user IFY AUTOS against Nigerian private teacher, Toluwalase Ikumawoyi, several former students of the embattled teacher have come forward to defend his character, describing him as “disciplined,” “inspiring,” and “fatherly.”
The mother had earlier alleged that Ikumawoyi, whom she hired for a two-week crash chemistry course for her daughter, had asked the teenager to “dance for him,” requested her pictures, and insisted she turn on her camera during Zoom lessons.
The claims, which were made in a now-viral video, sparked heated public debate and prompted an investigation by Edugist.
However, in a new twist to the ongoing saga, some of Ikumawoyi’s former students have shared glowing testimonials about their experience with him, painting a very different picture of the teacher now under scrutiny.
“He Has Patience Many Teachers Lack”
Faith Odedeji, now a nursing student, recalled the lasting academic impact Mr. Ikumawoyi—known fondly as “Dr. Lash”—had on her life.
“He really taught me. His teaching has had a great impact on my life and academics,” she said. “He has this patience in teaching that many teachers don’t have. He connects with every student. He communicates effectively and ensures that we understand what he’s teaching.”
Odedeji praised his consistency and empathy in the classroom: “He ensures there is no fear. He treats everyone equally. Most importantly, he has a passion for teaching—you can see it when he lectures.”
“He Helped Me Spiritually, Academically, and Physically”
Another former student, Oluwatobiloba Oluwatomisin, described Ikumawoyi not only as a teacher but a mentor and father figure. “Mr. Toluwalase taught me chemistry and physics from SS1,” she said. “He helped me a lot—academically, spiritually, and physically. I call him my daddy. I was not very good in chemistry, but he made it easier for me.”
She described his teaching style as impactful and inspiring, saying, “He is one of a kind.”
“He’s Very Disciplined—He Won’t Go Against What’s Right”
Faith Olagunju another student from Abike College, also offered strong support for the embattled tutor. “Mr. Ikumawoyi is like a father to me. He’s a good and loving teacher who has invested so much time in us,” she said. “Even when he was busy, he always made time to teach us through physical, online, and WhatsApp classes.”
Olagunju emphasized his discipline: “He is very disciplined. He won’t do anything that goes against what’s right. He respects the law and his environment. In my secondary school days, he never did anything inappropriate.”
Background: A Disputed Account
In the initial interview, IFY AUTOS insisted that her daughter, a minor, was uncomfortable with the tutor’s conduct. “This guy has been asking her to dance during classes, asking for pictures, and saying he wishes he was there to give her a hug after passing her quiz,” she alleged.
However, Mr. Ikumawoyi denied all allegations, claiming that their communication was limited to academic chats via WhatsApp and Zoom. “There was no video call at all… Everything was just screenshots and responses,” he told Edugist. He added that he provided chat logs to the mother to clear up any misunderstanding, only to find himself blocked.
Screenshots reviewed by Edugist confirm that while there was communication between the tutor and the student via WhatsApp, there is currently no conclusive evidence to support or refute the woman’s claims of inappropriate behavior.
The woman has maintained her position: “If I wanted to destroy him, I would have done it publicly. But my concern is for my child.”
A Divided Public and a Search for Truth
As the case unfolds, it presents a complex dilemma about trust in virtual learning environments, the right to privacy, and the consequences of online allegations. While the mother has called for caution in publicizing the matter to protect her daughter’s identity, the teacher—concerned about his reputation and professional standing—is seeking justice and clarity.
Meanwhile, the testimonials from his former students have sparked renewed interest in the case, reinforcing the need for a thorough and impartial investigation before drawing conclusions.
The story continues to evolve.
