Protester Sowore to Lead Demonstration Today Over Delayed NYSC Certificate Belonging to Raye
In a recent turn of events, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has found itself at the centre of controversy following the withholding of the discharge certificate of corps member Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye.
The controversy began when Uguamaye, in a viral video posted on social media in March, criticised the Federal Government's policies and the handling of Nigeria's struggling economy. Her comments drew mixed reactions from Nigerians, but gained prominence with the involvement of prominent figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Uguamaye later apologised, stating that her remarks had been misunderstood. However, the issue took a new turn last week when she alleged that the NYSC had withheld her discharge certificate, accusing officials of claiming she missed her April 2025 biometric clearance, a delay she blamed on her local government inspector's refusal to sign her attendance.
The NYSC authorities, in response, announced that Uguamaye's service year had been extended by two months for failing to attend the April 2025 biometric clearance. They denied that the withholding of the discharge certificate was linked to her public criticism of the government, stating it was a valid disciplinary action under NYSC regulations that also applied to 131 other corps members who missed the clearance.
Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has since announced plans for a protest on Tuesday in support of Uguamaye. Sowore accuses the NYSC of refusing to allow Uguamaye to complete her one-month clearance and of targeting her for her political views. He claims to have evidence proving that Uguamaye attempted to fulfil her mandatory one-month clearance.
The issue has sparked significant public outcry and support for Uguamaye, including calls from human rights activists and increased attention to NYSC policies on corps members’ treatment. The controversy has also led to a growing concern about the freedom of speech and expression for corps members serving under the NYSC scheme.
The NYSC has yet to comment on Sowore's accusations, and the status of Uguamaye's discharge certificate remains unclear. The protest planned for Tuesday is expected to draw a large crowd, with Nigerians voicing their concerns about the treatment of corps members and the role of the NYSC in suppressing freedom of speech.
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