The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has thrown its support behind Ushie Uguamaye, a Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member also known as Raye, who claims to have received threats for criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration. TUC President Festus Osifo stated that the corps member’s remarks stemmed from frustration and urged the government to exercise tolerance rather than targeting her.
Osifo emphasized that while critics should express their grievances with decorum, the government must develop resilience in handling public dissatisfaction. “People are frustrated, hungry, and tired. If they decide to vent, the government should not personalize it and come after such individuals,” he said.
He further questioned the rationale behind targeting a young NYSC member, stating, “What does she really have to do to bring down the government? Her comments reflect personal frustration. The government needs to be more tolerant and patient with Nigerians, as people are going through a lot.”
Raye, a corps member serving in Lagos, recently went viral after posting a video on her TikTok account (#talktoraye) criticizing government policies. In the video, she expressed frustration over Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions, stating that hard work no longer guarantees financial stability. She described President Tinubu as a “terrible leader” and questioned the government’s efforts to alleviate citizens’ hardships.
Following the video’s circulation, Raye alleged that she faced threats, reportedly from NYSC officials, who pressured her to take down the video. However, the NYSC has yet to issue an official statement addressing the matter.
The incident has sparked widespread reactions, with many Nigerians expressing solidarity with Raye and condemning any attempts to silence her. The TUC’s intervention highlights the growing frustration among citizens over economic challenges and the need for the government to address these concerns constructively.
Osifo’s remarks also underscore the importance of fostering an environment where citizens can voice their opinions without fear of retribution. He advised the government to focus on addressing the root causes of public discontent rather than targeting individuals who speak out.
The TUC’s support for Raye reflects broader concerns about freedom of expression and the need for the government to engage with critics in a more tolerant and understanding manner. As Nigerians continue to grapple with economic hardships, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of open dialogue and accountability in governance.
The NYSC’s silence on the matter has further fueled public curiosity, with many calling for transparency and a resolution that upholds the rights of corps members and citizens alike.
