Peter Obi Condemns Alleged Threats Against NYSC Member Over Viral Video on Economic Hardship
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has spoken out against the reported intimidation of Ushie Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member who went viral after sharing her struggles with the rising cost of living in Nigeria.
Raye, who is currently serving in Lagos, expressed frustration over the difficulty of affording basic necessities on her stipend. However, following the video’s widespread attention, NYSC officials allegedly pressured her to delete the post and summoned her to a panel at the secretariat.
Reacting to the development, Obi strongly criticized any attempts to silence young Nigerians who speak out on pressing national issues.
“Instead of suppressing voices, the NYSC and the current administration should engage in meaningful dialogue with citizens,” he stated.
Drawing from his own experiences, Obi noted that constructive criticism should be encouraged, not punished.
“I face daily intimidation, harassment, and name-calling simply for offering solution-driven perspectives on government policies,” he added.
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…
— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) March 16, 2025
Describing the reported actions of the NYSC as inappropriate, Obi urged authorities to embrace accountability and listen to the concerns of citizens.
“A thriving and fair Nigeria should be one where young people like Raye are free to express their realities, while leaders take concrete steps to address these challenges,” he emphasized.
Obi further encouraged Nigerians to stand firm in speaking the truth, stating that free speech remains a fundamental pillar of good governance.
