The controversy surrounding National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Ushie Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, has ignited intense discussions on free speech, democracy, and citizens’ rights in Nigeria. Raye faced threats from NYSC officials after openly criticizing the government, sparking national outrage and drawing reactions from prominent political figures.
🚨BREAKING NEWS
— @𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗷𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗯𝗼𝘆 (@OneJoblessBoy) March 15, 2025
Raye is now being threatened by NYSC representatives for making this video criticizing the government.
Listen to her… https://t.co/8TRPAMGNG8 pic.twitter.com/H85beBsqKD
Peter Obi Condemns Intimidation
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi decried the threats against Raye, emphasizing that dissent should be met with dialogue, not oppression. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Obi wrote:
📢 “The National Youth Corps member, Ushie Rita Uguamaye, recently had an experience that highlights a troubling trend in our nation—one where voices of reason and truth are met with intimidation rather than dialogue and engagement.”
Obi also revealed that he has faced similar harassment for offering constructive criticisms of government policies, calling it a dangerous trend for democracy.
The National Youth Corps member, Ushie Rita Uguamaye, also known as Raye, recently had an experience that highlights a troubling trend in our nation—one where voices of reason and truth are met with intimidation rather than dialogue and engagement.
— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) March 16, 2025
Reports indicate that she has…
Atiku Abubakar Praises Raye’s Courage
Former vice president Atiku Abubakar likened Raye to historic female activists such as Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti and Margaret Ekpo, stating:
👩⚖️ “Raye embodies the spirit of a new generation of women who champion the ideals of popular participation and unwavering advocacy. She follows in the footsteps of formidable trailblazers who stood resolute in defense of the common good.”
Atiku urged Nigerians to support and encourage Raye rather than subject her to hostility.
Raye embodies the spirit of a new generation of women who champion the ideals of popular participation and unwavering advocacy in the political sphere.
— Atiku Abubakar (@atiku) March 16, 2025
I deeply admire her boldness and wisdom—her fearless resolve to speak truth to power, undeterred by the weight of opposition.…
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour Defends Free Speech
Labour Party leader Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour described the incident as an attack on democracy, warning that suppressing free speech violates citizens’ constitutional rights.
⚖️ “Raye is all of us, and any attempt to silence her is a direct assault on citizens’ liberty. Our youths are in pain, suffering from deprivation, yet the government not only inflicts hardship but also wants to dictate how we react.”
Raye is all of us, and any attempt to oppress and silence her is a direct assault on citizens liberty.
— Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour (@GRVlagos) March 16, 2025
We run a constitutional democracy and not a monarchy where the people are subjects to a king. Hence, citizens have a moral and constitutional right to dissenting views and… https://t.co/BzS1xzrNnu
Omoyele Sowore Offers Legal Support
Activist Omoyele Sowore confirmed that legal steps are being taken to support Raye as she faces the NYSC disciplinary process.
⚖️ “The journey with Corper Raye has commenced. She is scheduled to appear before the LGI today, and we will escort her to their offices with attorneys.”
Ben Murray-Bruce Calls for an End to Criticism
Former senator Ben Murray-Bruce, however, took a contrasting stance, urging Nigerians to stop criticizing the government.
🗣️ “Those of you on social media, stop criticizing Nigeria and its leaders. We need a break, okay?”
"Those of you on social media, stop criticizing Nigeria online, stop criticizing our Leaders online"
— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) March 17, 2025
-Ben Murray-Bruce speaking last night at Silverbird Award, reacts to video of NYSC corp member who cålls out Tinubu's government over high cost of living in Nigeria. pic.twitter.com/6mWOz0pe5u
Public Reactions and the Bigger Picture
The controversy surrounding Raye has reignited debates on freedom of speech, youth activism, and government accountability in Nigeria. Many argue that silencing dissent contradicts democratic principles, while others believe caution should be exercised in public discourse.
What are your thoughts? Should NYSC members be free to criticize the government, or should there be limits? 🤔
