The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has officially denied reports that it extended the service year of corps member Ms. Rita Uguamayé, popularly known as Raye on Instagram, in response to her viral TikTok criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Earlier reports circulating online alleged that the NYSC extended Ms. Uguamayé’s service by two months as a punitive response to her outspoken video condemning the federal government over worsening economic conditions. The viral post drew widespread attention and triggered concerns about freedom of speech under the current administration.
However, NYSC authorities have debunked the claims stating that no extension has been issued and clarified that such decisions are only made when a corps member is due to pass out, and only on the basis of absconding, misconduct, or unresolved documentation issues.
“Furthermore, Ms. Uguamayé has not been confirmed to have received any such directive.”
This clarification comes as the story continues to trend on social media, raising questions about the possible suppression of dissent and the broader implications for young Nigerians expressing political views online.
Ms. Uguamayé, who is currently serving in Lagos State, has yet to personally confirm or deny the alleged extension.
The situation remains fluid, but this development underscores growing tensions between youth expression and government tolerance of dissent, especially in an era of economic hardship and rising frustration among Nigeria’s young population.
