The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has denied claims that it extended the service year of Rita Uguamaye, also known as Raye, as punishment for criticizing President Bola Tinubu and his administration.
Raye, a corps member serving in Lagos, recently gained attention on social media after posting a viral video on TikTok where she expressed frustration over Nigeria’s rising inflation and economic hardship. In the video, she described the President as a “terrible leader” and called Lagos a “smelling state” due to poor living conditions.
Following the video’s spread, Raye claimed in another post that she was being pressured by NYSC officials to delete the video. She alleged threats were made against her, though the NYSC did not directly respond to those accusations.
The incident sparked public concern, with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and activist Omoyele Sowore condemning the alleged threats. Sowore also criticized a media report that claimed Raye’s service year had been extended by two months due to her remarks, threatening to stage a protest at the upcoming NYSC passing out parade if the action wasn’t reversed.
Responding to the controversy, NYSC’s Acting Director of Press and Public Relations, Carol Embu, clarified that no such extension had been made. She explained that service year extensions only occur at the end of the program and must follow official procedures.
“She is still serving. If any issues arise, they will be addressed according to NYSC rules. We don’t act on hearsay,” Embu said.
As of now, there is no official confirmation from Uguamaye herself regarding any extension and no new posts on the matter have been shared on her social media pages.