The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has denied claims that it extended the service year of Rita Uguamaye, a Lagos-based corps member, following her public criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, gained significant attention online after she criticised the current administration’s handling of the nation’s economic situation. In a viral video shared on her TikTok account (@talktoraye), Uguamaye expressed frustration over Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions, highlighting soaring inflation and widespread hardship. The video, which quickly gained traction, featured Uguamaye labelling President Tinubu a “terrible leader” and questioning the government’s failure to alleviate the struggles of Nigerian citizens.
The corps member also made critical remarks about Lagos State, calling it a “smelling state” and denouncing its “poor living conditions.”
After her video went viral, Uguamaye posted another update, claiming she was being threatened by NYSC authorities. According to her, NYSC officials pressured her to delete the original video, but she stood firm, insisting that she had only spoken the truth. Uguamaye further alleged that her life was being threatened, but the NYSC has not made any official comment on these claims.
The controversy has sparked widespread condemnation from various figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and prominent human rights activist Omoyele Sowore. Sowore, in particular, expressed his outrage over the alleged threats to Uguamaye, vowing to protest at the NYSC passing-out parade unless she is allowed to complete her service without further interference.
Sowore shared a news caption on social media, reading, “NYSC punitively extends Raye’s service year by 2 months for criticising Tinubu’s administration over hardship,” adding that he would mobilise protesters to attend the passing-out ceremony.
In a response to these developments, the acting NYSC Director of Press and Public Relations, Carol Embu, dismissed the claims of a punitive extension of Uguamaye’s service year. Embu stated that any decision regarding the extension of a corps member’s service year is made when they are set to complete their service. She assured that there are established procedures in place for such actions.
“Who is Sowore? Does he work with the NYSC? So, how come you are listening to him? I don’t understand how she will get an extension if she is still serving,” Embu remarked. She further emphasised that the NYSC adheres strictly to rules and regulations and will address any issues as they arise. “NYSC is not an irresponsible organisation; we work with rules and regulations,” Embu added.
Despite Embu’s response, there has been no official confirmation from the NYSC regarding the alleged extension of Uguamaye’s service year. Furthermore, the corps member has not posted any updates regarding the matter on her social media accounts.
As of now, the dispute remains unresolved, and the public continues to watch closely for any further developments.
