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Nigerian activist Omoyele Sowore, alongside a team of lawyers, accompanied Lagos-based NYSC member Ushie Uguamaye, also known as Raye, to her Local Government Inspector’s (LGI) office on Monday after she was summoned over a viral video in which she criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Raye had gained public attention after sharing a TikTok video lamenting the country’s economic downturn, blaming President Tinubu for the worsening conditions. In a follow-up video, she alleged that NYSC officials pressured her to take down her initial post and that she had been facing threats over her remarks.
Following the summons, Sowore and a team of lawyers, including Festus Ogun, Yinka Oyesomi, and Justice Ojienoh, escorted her to the Eti-Osa NYSC office in Lagos. However, the NYSC officials failed to appear, leading Sowore to claim they had deliberately avoided the meeting. He stated:
“We arrived at the Eti-Osa LGI office with Ushie Rita Uguamaye, but the LGI official absconded and did not show up the entire time we were there.”
NYSC Maintains Silence Amid Growing Attention
A source at the local government office suggested that the LGI inspector chose to stay away due to the significant media attention surrounding the issue. It was also revealed that the NYSC State Directorate had directed officials not to make any public statements while an internal review of the incident was ongoing.
Meanwhile, Temitope Ajayi, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, addressed speculation that he had called for the corps member’s execution. Clarifying his position, he stated:
“There has been a deliberate misrepresentation of my comment. I only pointed out that anyone violating NYSC rules should face appropriate disciplinary measures. The most severe penalty under NYSC regulations is expulsion not capital
Public Out cry Sparks #30DayRantChallenge
In response to Raye’s situation and growing frustration over the economic crisis, Nigerians have launched the #30DayRantChallenge on social media. The trend has seen citizens voicing concerns over rising costs of living and the government’s handling of the economy.
– @PenTitan: “Back in 2021, $500 was worth ₦220k and could buy a TV, fridge, and AC. Now in 2025, $500 equals ₦800k, yet a fridge alone costs ₦350k! #30DayRantChallenge.”
– @Mbahdeyforyou: “We can’t keep enduring hardship in silence. It’s time to speak up! #30DayRantChallenge.”
– @Miz_Fey: “Fuel prices are up, food prices are up, transport fares are up, yet salaries remain the same. How do they expect people to survive? #30DayRantChallenge.”
### Seyi Tinubu Sparks Controversy with Comment on His Father
Amid growing dissatisfaction, Seyi Tinubu, son of the president, sparked further debate after declaring his father the greatest president Nigeria has ever had. In a viral video, he addressed a gathering of youths in Adamawa State, saying:
“They keep coming for me, my family, and your father Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu the greatest president in Nigeria’s history.”
While public reactions to his statement have been mixed, the NYSC has yet to issue an official response regarding Raye’s situation.
