Corps Member Denied NYSC Certificate Amid Claims of Victimization and Political Retaliation

Corps Member Denied NYSC Certificate Amid Claims of Victimization and Political Retaliation

Ushie Rita Uguamaye, widely known as “Raye,” has again made headlines—this time over claims that she was denied her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate despite reportedly completing her service year.

According to her Local Government Inspector (LGI), Raye failed to attend the mandatory April clearance. However, Raye insists she was present and alleges that the denial of her certificate is a form of retaliation for her outspoken activism and previous criticisms of the Nigerian government.

Raye first attracted national attention last year when a video of her went viral on TikTok. In the clip, she harshly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration, citing worsening economic conditions, soaring inflation, and the overall poor state of living—especially for youth corps members. She described Lagos as a “smelling state” and called President Tinubu “terrible,” remarks that drew widespread reactions.

In her recent statement, Raye recounted being humiliated during the clearance exercise, claiming she was ordered to stand at the back of the parade before her file was confiscated. She maintains that the allegation of her absence in April is false and part of a targeted campaign against her.

The situation has drawn national attention, with several notable Nigerians expressing support for her. Among them is activist and Sahara Reporters publisher Omoyele Sowore, who recently regained his freedom after being detained. Sowore condemned the treatment of Raye, calling it a continuation of systemic oppression and vowing to fight for justice on her behalf.

“Raye’s activism played a role in pressuring the government to increase the NYSC monthly allowance to ₦77,000. Silencing her now is an affront to justice,” Sowore said.

Support also came from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who lauded her bravery, and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, who took to social media to warn against the suppression of dissenting voices and democratic freedoms.