In a recent development highlighting tensions between freedom of expression and administrative procedures in Nigeria, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to direct the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to release the discharge certificate of corps member Ushie Rita Uguamaye. SERAP alleges that the certificate is being withheld solely due to Ms Uguamaye’s peaceful criticism of the government, a claim the NYSC has vehemently denied.
Ms Uguamaye, who served under state code LA/24B/8325 and is popularly known as ‘Raye’ on social media, gained public attention earlier this year after posting a video lamenting the high cost of living and accusing the Tinubu administration of “weaponising poverty” against Nigerians. In the video, which went viral in March 2025, she expressed frustration over economic hardships, stating that life in Nigeria had become “incredibly tough for most” with “several layers of suffering.” Her comments resonated with many, but they also drew scrutiny from NYSC authorities.
SERAP’s statement, issued on 10 August 2025 via their official X account, described the withholding of the certificate as a “blatant violation” of Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended), which guarantees every person’s right to freedom of expression, including the freedom to hold opinions and to impart ideas without interference. It also cited Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, to which Nigeria is a signatory, affirming that “every individual shall have the right to express and disseminate his opinions within the law.” SERAP argued that punishing Ms Uguamaye for her views demonstrates an “intolerance toward citizens who speak out for human rights and social justice.”
The organisation further contended that the action contravenes Section 11 of the NYSC Act, which mandates the issuance of a Certificate of National Service upon completion of service, unless exempted under Section 17 (typically for reasons like medical issues or other specified exemptions). “No one should ever be punished solely for peacefully exercising their human rights,” SERAP emphasised, urging the NYSC to respect the rights of all corps members and avoid repressive measures. They invoked President Tinubu’s own words on tolerance, quoting him as saying, “no one should bear the brunt of injustice for merely writing a bad report about me or calling me names. Democracy requires a fair degree of tolerance for harsh words and stinging insults.” SERAP warned that they would hold NYSC leadership accountable if the certificate is not released immediately.
In response, the NYSC issued a clarification on the same day, dismissing allegations that the certificate was withheld due to Ms Uguamaye’s criticism as “entirely unfounded and false in its entirety.” According to the NYSC, Ms Uguamaye is among 131 corps members whose certificates were withheld for “valid disciplinary reasons.” Specifically, her service year was extended by two months for failing to attend the April 2025 biometrics clearance, a mandatory process aligned with NYSC Bye-Laws. The organisation stressed that this is a “standard procedure” applied equally to all non-compliant members and urged the public not to politicise the matter. “Extending service for non-compliance is a longstanding tradition within the NYSC,” the statement read.
The controversy has drawn reactions from prominent figures. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the NYSC’s actions, expressing hope that the withholding is not retaliation for Ms Uguamaye’s courage in highlighting economic challenges under the current administration. “I hope that Ushie Rita Uguamaye’s NYSC discharge certificate is not being withheld because she had the courage to complain about the terrible leader,” he stated. Social media users and activists, including journalist Yele Sowore who accompanied Ms Uguamaye to an NYSC office in March amid earlier threats, have echoed calls for her release, describing the situation as an “abuse of power.”
This case underscores broader debates on freedom of speech in Nigeria, particularly for young people in national service. While the NYSC Bye-Laws emphasise discipline and respect for authority, they do not explicitly prohibit criticism of the government. However, public expressions could be seen as conflicting with the oath of allegiance taken by corps members.
As of now, the NYSC has not indicated when Ms Uguamaye’s extended service will conclude or if her certificate will be issued upon completion. SERAP’s intervention adds pressure on President Tinubu to uphold his commitment to human rights, potentially setting a precedent for how dissent is handled within public institutions. The presidency has yet to respond to the appeal.
