- Uguamaye’s ordeal began earlier this year after she made headlines when her TikTok video in which she criticised the Tinubu administration and described Lagos as “smelling state” went viral.
The National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, has broken its silence on the controversy surrounding its refusal to issue a certificate of National Service to corps member Ushie Rita Uguamaye with code number LA/24B/8325.
Recall that Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, had taken to social media to narrate how her certificate was withheld and how her efforts to get it were frustrated by officials of the scheme.
Uguamaye, who served in Lagos State, said the withholding of her certificate is not unconnected to her criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s government and the State government.
Uguamaye’s ordeal began earlier this year after she made headlines when her TikTok video in which she criticised the Tinubu administration and described Lagos as “smelling state” went viral.
In a recent video, she disclosed that she has had to endure so much persecution, injustice and harassment since her criticism of Tinubu’s government.
She stated that her Local Government Inspector, LGI, refused to clear her for April, despite her being present on the scheduled date.
Reacting to her claim, the NYSC described the information making the rounds on social media as misleading.
In a statement signed by Caroline Embu, Acting Director, Information and Public Relations, the body said reports that Uguamaye was denied her certificate due to criticism of her by the government are false.
It disclosed that the embattled corps member did not get her certificate because she did not fulfil the requirements.
“Rita is among the 131 Corps Members whose Certificates of National Service (CNS) were withheld for valid disciplinary reasons,” the NYSC explained.
“Specifically, Rita’s service year has been extended by two months for failing to attend the April 2025 biometrics clearance, a decision that aligns with the NYSC Bye-Laws.
“It is important to note that this extension is a standard procedure and not unique to her case, and the principle of equal treatment was only applied in this case.
“The NYSC Management thus urges the public to approach this matter with understanding, as extending service for non-compliance is a longstanding tradition within the NYSC and should not be politicised.
“The NYSC Scheme remains committed to discharging its mandate, in line with the dictates of the constitution. Nigeria is Ours; Nigeria We Serve.”
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