By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Reporter
CLAIMS OF intimidation and threats against Ushie Uguamaye, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, following her viral video criticising President Bola Tinubu’s administration has been strongly refuted by the Federal Government.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, denounced the allegations, insisting that NYSC disciplinary measures adhere strictly to established regulations and do not exceed their legal limits.
Ajayi stressed that the NYSC, a historically significant national programme, must uphold discipline and avoid being misrepresented. He stated that any infractions of its by-laws should be addressed within the existing framework of disciplinary measures.
“The NYSC scheme symbolises national unity and must not be ridiculed by indiscipline. The maximum punishment within its protocol is expulsion; nothing beyond the established norms and laws has been suggested or implied,” he said.
This reaction follows Uguamaye’s assertions that she faced threats from the NYSC authorities after criticising the government’s handling of Nigeria’s economic crisis in a widely circulated TikTok video.
In the video, Uguamaye expressed frustration over high inflation and economic hardship, describing President Tinubu as a “terrible leader.” Additionally, she lambasted Lagos State’s living conditions, calling it a “smelling state.”
The video also sparked widespread debate, with mixed reactions on social media. Supporters applauded her for speaking out, while critics argued that her remarks were inappropriate for a serving corps member.
Subsequent to the video’s virality, Uguamaye posted another video, alleging that NYSC officials were pressuring her to delete the post.
“Dear Nigerians, I am already getting threatened by the NYSC board to stop speaking on this issue. In less than 24 hours, I’m already getting threatened by the government, starting with the NYSC board!” she stated.
She further claimed that NYSC officials were tracking her location and urged them to desist from intimidating her.
“They have my address. If you don’t see me online, you know who to hold accountable. I just asked them to work on inflation. Why can’t I speak up? Why can’t the government listen to criticism?” she asked.
Despite the NYSC board’s silence on the allegations, the controversy has gained traction among political figures and rights organisations.
Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar lauded Uguamaye’s courage, comparing her to historic female activists like Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti and Margaret Ekpo.
“Rather than being met with hostility, Raye deserves encouragement and support. She is a shining emblem of Nigerian youth—testament to the long-held promise that the leaders of tomorrow are already among us,” Atiku stated.
Similarly, the Social-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) urged President Tinubu to direct the NYSC to halt any alleged harassment.
“The NYSC must immediately end intimidation and threats against Uguamaye. Freedom of expression is a fundamental right. If these threats persist, we’ll take legal action,” SERAP warned.
However, the Federal Government maintains that no undue action has been taken against the corps member.
