The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has denied claims that it extended the service year of Lagos-based corps member Rita Uguamaye, popularly known online as Raye, as punishment for her public criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Raye, who gained online attention for her viral TikTok videos where she described the Nigerian economy as worsening and President Tinubu as a “terrible leader,” also lamented harsh living conditions in Lagos, calling it a “smelling state.”
What Happened:
- Raye posted a video on TikTok lamenting inflation and economic hardship, criticising both Lagos and the federal government.
- She alleged that NYSC officials threatened her and asked her to take down the video, which she refused.
- Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the alleged intimidation.
- Rumours then circulated online suggesting that NYSC punished her by extending her service year by two months.
NYSC’s Response:
NYSC spokesperson Carol Embu denied any extension, clarifying:
“NYSC is not an irresponsible organisation; we work with rules and regulations. She is still serving. If she has any issues, we will wait and see.”
She emphasized that service extensions are only considered at the end of service, and decisions follow strict internal guidelines.
The Status:
- Raye has not confirmed any official service year extension on her social media.
- No documentation or official letter indicating an extension has surfaced.
- The NYSC maintains its stance that no such punitive action has been taken.
What’s Next:
The situation remains under public scrutiny, especially with activist Sowore threatening to mobilize protests at the NYSC Passing Out Parade if Raye is “hindered” from completing her service normally.
Observers are now watching closely to see how NYSC handles her case at the completion of her service.
