Lagos, Nigeria – Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has thrown his support behind Ushie Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member facing scrutiny over her viral video criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Sowore, in a video shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, revealed that he had met with Uguamaye in Lagos and would be accompanying her to the NYSC Local Government Inspector’s (LGI) office, along with a team of attorneys.

“The journey with youth Corper, Ushie Rita Uguamaye, has commenced in Lagos.
She is scheduled to appear before the LGI today, and we will escort her to their offices. We are all en route with attorneys,” Sowore captioned the video.

Free Speech Debate Intensifies

Uguamaye recently sparked nationwide debate after posting a TikTok video lamenting Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions and openly criticizing President Tinubu’s leadership. Following the video’s circulation, she alleged receiving threats over her remarks.

She also shared a screenshot of an NYSC invitation, summoning her to appear at the LGI office at Eti Osa 3 on Monday at 10:00 a.m.

Political and Public Reactions

Sowore’s involvement has drawn even more attention to the case, raising concerns about freedom of expression and political dissent in Nigeria. His public support suggests the possibility of legal intervention should Uguamaye face any punitive action from the NYSC or other authorities.

NYSC Yet to Respond

As of now, the NYSC has not issued an official statement regarding the situation. However, the case has sparked widespread conversations on the rights of citizens, particularly young Nigerians, to criticize government policies without fear of repercussions.

The outcome of Uguamaye’s meeting with the NYSC remains uncertain, as Nigerians closely watch how authorities will handle the case.