The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has dismissed claims that it extended the service year of a Lagos-based corps member, Rita Uguamaye—popularly known as Raye—over her public criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
FCNN learnt Uguamaye gained attention online after a viral video she posted on TikTok (@talktoraye) in which she expressed deep frustration about the country’s worsening economic conditions. In the video, she lamented high inflation, hardship, and described President Tinubu as a “terrible leader.” She also referred to Lagos State as a “smelling state” with “poor living conditions.”
Following the backlash, Uguamaye released another video claiming she was being threatened by NYSC officials and pressured to delete the viral clip. She insisted she merely spoke the truth about the state of the nation.
The situation sparked public reactions, with figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and activist Omoyele Sowore condemning the alleged threats. On Tuesday, Sowore shared a headline that read, “NYSC punitively extends Raye’s service year by 2 months for criticising Tinubu’s administration over hardship”, and vowed to protest at the NYSC’s passing-out ceremony if the alleged punitive action was not reversed.
“This is not acceptable,” Sowore wrote. “We will mobilise to the Passing Out Parade unless Rita is allowed to complete her service without harassment.”
In response, NYSC’s acting Director of Press and Public Relations, Carol Embu, denied the claim. She clarified that decisions regarding extension of service are only made at the end of the service year and are based on established rules and regulations.
“Who is Sowore? Does he work with NYSC? I don’t understand how she could be given an extension when she’s still serving,” Embu said. “NYSC is not an irresponsible organisation; we operate within the bounds of our guidelines. If she has any issues, we’ll address them at the appropriate time.”
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As of the time of reporting, Uguamaye had not confirmed or posted any update about a service year extension on her social media platforms, and the claim could not be independently verified.
