NYSC Breaks Silence on Alleged Service Year Extension of Corper Raye Over Viral Tinubu Criticism
By DAYO ADESULU
🗞️ Background: Who is Rita Uguamaye (Raye)?
A member of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, Rita Uguamaye, popularly known on TikTok as @talktoraye, serving in Lagos State gained widespread attention after uploading a viral video in which she openly criticized the administration of President Bola Tinubu, voicing frustration over Nigeria’s deepening economic struggles.
Her video quickly attracted nationwide interest, sparking debates on freedom of expression, youth activism, and the state of governance in Nigeria.
📹 The Viral Video That Sparked Controversy
In the now-viral TikTok post, Raye highlighted issues such as:
- Soaring inflation
- Unbearable economic hardship
- Failing leadership
She described Lagos State as a “smelling state” and claimed its living conditions were “unbearable.” Her statement ignited both praise and criticism across social media platforms.
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🚨 Allegations of NYSC Threats and Pressure to Delete the Video
Following the backlash, Raye claimed in a follow-up video that she was facing threats from National Youth Service Corps officials. According to her, she was allegedly pressured to delete the critical video, although she stood by her words, asserting that she spoke the truth.
Despite these claims, the NYSC has not publicly commented on any threats or disciplinary actions related to the video.
🔥 Public Figures React: Sowore and Atiku Speak Out
Prominent voices like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and activist Omoyele Sowore expressed concern over Raye’s alleged treatment. A viral news caption claimed:
“NYSC punitively extends Raye’s service year by 2 months for criticising Tinubu’s administration.”
Sowore responded by saying:
“This is not acceptable, we will mobilise down to the Passing Out Parade except Rita is allowed to complete her NYSC national service without let or hindrance.”
This strong stance fueled further public discourse and increased scrutiny of NYSC’s internal decisions.
🛑 NYSC Denies Claims of Service Year Extension
In response to the swirling controversy, Carol Embu, the acting Director of Press and Public Relations at National Youth Service Corps, firmly denied any punitive extension of Raye’s service year.
She said:
“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.”
Embu questioned the legitimacy of the source:
“Who is Sowore? Does he work with NYSC?”
🧾 Facts vs Claims: What’s Verified and What’s Not
| Claim | Status |
|---|---|
| Service year extension confirmed? | ❌ Unverified |
| NYSC threatening Raye? | ❌ Unconfirmed |
| Raye speaking out again? | ✅ Confirmed |
| Political leaders reacting? | ✅ Confirmed |
As of now, no official documentation or credible update has confirmed that Raye’s NYSC service has been extended.
🧑⚖️ Legal and Human Rights Concerns
The situation has reignited a conversation about youth rights, freedom of expression, and the boundaries of governmental authority within civil service programs like National Youth Service Corps.
Advocacy groups have called for:
- Transparent investigations
- Protection for whistleblowers
- Respect for constitutional freedoms
📱 Social Media Erupts With Support
Raye’s followers and supporters on platforms like TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram have rallied behind her, using hashtags like:
- #IStandWithRaye
- #FreeSpeechInNigeria
- #EndIntimidation
FAQs
1. Did NYSC officially extend Raye’s service year?
No, the NYSC has denied any extension and stated that such decisions are made only at the end of the service term.
2. Is Raye in danger?
Raye claims to have received threats, but there is no independently verified report of direct danger to her life.
3. What did Raye say in her video?
She criticized the government, described Lagos as poorly maintained, and expressed frustration about inflation and hardship.
4. Has Raye deleted the video?
No, as of now, the video remains accessible on her TikTok account.
5. What did Sowore and Atiku say?
Both condemned the alleged threats against Raye and called for her protection and fair treatment.
6. Can NYSC extend a service year as punishment?
According to NYSC regulations, service year extensions are only issued for misconduct like absenteeism—not for free speech.
