Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has also expressed his support for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member Ushie Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, who faced backlash after posting a viral video criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
In a video which has since gone viral, Raye expressed her frustration over the escalating cost of living in Nigeria, highlighting the rising prices of essential commodities and services. She questioned the government’s efforts in addressing these economic challenges, stating, “I want to know, what is the government doing about this increase? Is there going to be a particular time when prices will stop going up?” She also described President Tinubu as a “terrible person,” reflecting her dissatisfaction with the current administration.
Following the video’s circulation, Raye reportedly received multiple calls from NYSC officials urging her to remove the content and cease her criticisms. Subsequently, she was summoned to appear before the NYSC Local Government Inspector (LGI) at the Eti Osa 3 local government office.
In response to this development, Obi commended her courage in voicing her concerns and criticized any attempts to intimidate citizens for expressing their views. He emphasized that such actions are contrary to democratic principles and called on the government to engage constructively with critics.
Obi stated:
“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.
Reports indicate that she has faced threats from NYSC officials simply for expressing her concerns about the current administration.
This pattern is not isolated. I, too, have been subjected to threats for daring to offer constructive suggestions and comments.
I now face daily intimidation, harassment, and name-calling simply for expressing solution-based views on government policies.
Such actions are antithetical to the principles of democracy. A government that silences its citizens is not democratic or one that is subject to accountability and good governance and is most often corrupt.
I urge the current administration to reflect deeply on its approach to dissent and recognize that constructive criticism is a cornerstone of democratic progress.
To all patriotic Nigerians: Our nation’s future and development depend on our collective courage to speak out against misgovernance, injustice, and intimidation.
Do not let fear stifle your voice. Stand firm, support one another, and continue to advocate for Nigeria we all envision—a nation where freedom of speech is sacrosanct, and leadership is accountable to the people, especially in critical areas such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.
A just and prosperous Nigeria should be one where people like Raye are encouraged to speak out about the challenges they face, while those in government take urgent action to address these issues.
A New Nigeria is POssible! -PO”
By Ezinne Okorie.
