NYSC Denies Punishing Corps Member Over Tinubu Criticism

Abuja, Nigeria: The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has denied claims that it extended the service year of a Lagos-based corps member, Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, as punishment for her criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Uguamaye recently gained online attention after posting a viral video on her TikTok account, @talktoraye, in which she voiced her frustration over Nigeria’s economic challenges. In the video, she lamented rising inflation and worsening living conditions, describing the current administration as failing to improve the lives of citizens.

In her remarks, she labelled President Tinubu a “terrible leader” and criticised Lagos State, calling it a “smelling state” with “poor living conditions.”

Following the widespread attention the video received, Uguamaye released another clip in which she alleged that NYSC officials had pressured her to delete the initial post. She also claimed she was facing threats from authorities, although the NYSC did not directly respond to those allegations.

The controversy drew the attention of prominent figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, both of whom condemned the alleged intimidation. Sowore, sharing a headline that read, “NYSC punitively extends Raye’s service year by 2 months for criticising Tinubu’s administration over hardship,” pledged to stage a protest at the corps’ passing-out parade.

Despite the public outcry, the NYSC has officially denied any punitive extension of Uguamaye’s service year. The agency maintains that her service schedule remains in line with established protocols, and no disciplinary measures have been taken in connection with her online statements.

The situation has sparked broader debates about freedom of expression, the responsibilities of corps members, and the boundaries of state authority in regulating political dissent among Nigerian youth.

By Taiwo Olatinwo/ June 25, 2025