By Olugbenga Adeolu
March 17, 2025
A Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Ushie Rita Uguamaye, has alleged receiving threats after posting a TikTok video criticising President Bola Tinubu.
She claimed that NYSC officials pressured her to delete the video and that her personal information was leaked.
Additionally, she was reportedly summoned by the NYSC, raising concerns over possible disciplinary action.
In her widely circulated video, Uguamaye described Tinubu as a “terrible leader” and highlighted Nigeria’s worsening economic crisis.
She pointed to soaring inflation, unaffordable food prices, and increasing hardship as evidence of the administration’s failure.
The video struck a chord with many Nigerians, reflecting growing frustration over the state of the economy.
Presidential aide’s controversial remarks
The situation escalated further when Temitope Ajayi, a media aide to President Tinubu, called for “capital punishment” under NYSC rules in response to Uguamaye’s actions.
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His statement triggered widespread outrage, with many interpreting it as an extreme reaction to a citizen expressing her grievances.
Ajayi later clarified that he meant expulsion as the maximum penalty, but his initial remarks had already fueled public criticism.
Public backlash and support
The threats against Uguamaye have sparked strong reactions from political leaders, labour groups, and human rights organisations:
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar praised Uguamaye’s courage, likening her to historic female activists and urging the government not to victimize her.
Labour Party’s Peter Obi condemned the government’s response, stating that silencing critics has become a norm under Tinubu’s administration, recalling his own experiences of intimidation as proof of growing repression.
The Trade Union Congress (TUC) defended Uguamaye, attributing her frustration to the harsh economic realities faced by Nigerians, as the union called for greater tolerance for public criticism.
Human rights lawyers and Amnesty International have also denounced the threats against Uguamaye, emphasising that free speech is a fundamental right in a democratic society.
The NYSC has yet to issue an official statement on the matter.
Meanwhile, Ajayi continues to face backlash over his remarks, with critics arguing that his rhetoric reflects a dangerous trend of intolerance toward dissent.
The incident has reignited debates about free speech, democratic accountability, and the government’s handling of criticism.
As public pressure mounts, many are keenly watching whether the NYSC will take action against Uguamaye or respect her constitutional right to express her views.
