Prominent comedian and social activist, Adebowale Adedayo, popularly known as Mr Macaroni, has strongly condemned the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) over reports of alleged intimidation of a corps member who criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The controversy erupted when Ushie Uguamaye, a corps member serving in Lagos, posted a TikTok video on Saturday expressing frustration over Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions.
In her impassioned video, Uguamaye questioned the government’s efforts to address the country’s economic difficulties and described President Tinubu as a “terrible leader.”
Shortly after the video went viral, Uguamaye claimed to have received threats from NYSC officials demanding that she delete the post. She raised concerns about her safety, alleging that the NYSC officials were aware of her residence and could use that information against her.
“Dear Nigerians, they have my address. In case you guys don’t see me online, please know who to hold accountable,” Uguamaye wrote on Instagram.
Reacting to the situation, Mr Macaroni took to his X (formerly Twitter) account to denounce the alleged intimidation, insisting that all Nigerians, including corps members, have the right to criticize government leadership.
He stated, “To the DG, Coordinators, and every official of the NYSC!!! You cannot threaten, intimidate, or victimize any corper for expressing their view on the performance of the president. They are citizens with rights! The president is in office to serve the people, and every Nigerian, corper or not, has the right to hold their leaders accountable!!!”
Mr Macaroni also commented on the broader issue of oppression in the country, lamenting that many Nigerians have become complacent with their plight.
“The oppressed are so in love with their oppressors. They are comfortable in their chains so far it’s not too tight. Even when it gets too tight, they will use their last dying breath to defend their enslavers,” he remarked.
