By: Maryjane Austine
NYSC Denies Punishing Corps Member Over Criticism of Tinubu
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has dismissed claims that it extended the service year of a Lagos-based corps member, Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, as punishment for criticising President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Uguamaye had stirred public attention after she posted a video on her TikTok account, @talktoraye, where she spoke out about Nigeria’s rising inflation and the hardship many citizens face. In the viral clip, she openly criticised the President, describing him as a “terrible leader” and accused the government of failing to improve the country’s living conditions.
She also expressed dissatisfaction with her experience in Lagos, calling the city “smelly” and lamenting what she saw as its poor state of infrastructure and sanitation.
Shortly after her comments gained wide attention, Uguamaye posted another video claiming she was being pressured by NYSC officials to take down the video. She alleged that she received threats following her outburst, though the NYSC did not respond publicly to the accusation at the time.
Read Also: NYSC Member Alleges Intimidation Over Viral Video Criticizing Tinubu’s Government
The situation drew responses from several public figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and activist Omoyele Sowore, who condemned any possible attempt to silence her. Sowore, reacting to a report that her service year was extended as punishment, pledged to protest at the NYSC’s passing-out parade.
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However, the NYSC has now stated clearly that there was no punitive extension of Raye’s service year and denied taking any disciplinary action related to her comments.
