Nigerian TikTok creator Celyn Ukam has sparked widespread debate online after accusing her ex-fiancé and father of her child, Dozie Ezemma, popularly known as Tush, of emotional and physical abuse during their relationship.
In a series of emotional posts shared on Instagram, Celyn alleged that the abuse began while she was pregnant with their daughter. She claimed she endured emotional manipulation, intimidation and neglect during one of the most vulnerable periods of her life.
According to Celyn, she was accused of being possessed by a “marine spirit” and blamed for her former partner’s financial struggles. She also alleged that she was expected to contribute financially toward their planned wedding, a demand she said ultimately led her to call off the ceremony.
The content creator further claimed she received threatening messages after giving birth through a Caesarean section and no longer felt safe living in Lagos. She said she has reported the matter through Nigeria’s justice system.
Her allegations quickly gained traction across social media, with many users expressing support and sharing their own experiences with abusive relationships.
Hours later, Dozie publicly responded, rejecting key aspects of Celyn’s account and insisting that the public had only heard one side of the story.
He denied physically abusing her and maintained that he supported her financially throughout their relationship, pregnancy and recovery after childbirth.
Dozie also denied asking Celyn to pay for their wedding, saying he had already made financial arrangements for the ceremony. He acknowledged sending a controversial message during their breakup but said he later apologised to Celyn and both families.
Addressing another major issue, Dozie claimed he has been denied access to their daughter despite continuing to provide financial support. To support his account, he shared screenshots of conversations and payment receipts, which he said documented his efforts to care for the child and remain involved in her life.
The former couple’s conflicting accounts have divided opinion online, with some calling for patience until all the facts emerge while others have continued to rally behind Celyn.
Neither Celyn’s allegations nor Dozie’s counterclaims have been independently verified.
As the dispute continues to unfold publicly, the controversy has fueled broader conversations about domestic abuse, co-parenting, financial expectations in relationships and the role of social media in resolving personal conflicts.