NYSC Extends Corps Member Raye’s Service by Two Months Over Criticism of Tinubu

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has extended the service year of a corps member, Rita Ushie, popularly known as Raye, by two months following her viral criticism of President Bola Tinubu.

The extension, announced after a disciplinary hearing, has drawn widespread condemnation from civil rights groups and social media users who view the decision as punitive and an infringement on her right to free expression.

Raye had in April published a video on social media criticizing President Tinubu over Nigeria’s worsening economic situation, high inflation, and poor living conditions. In the video, she lamented the hardship faced by many Nigerians and described the president as a “terrible leader.”

Her remarks quickly gained attention online, sparking both support and backlash.

Following the viral post, NYSC officials reportedly pressured her to take down the video and later summoned her for questioning. With just one month left to complete her service, she was instructed to report to the Lagos State NYSC orientation camp at Iyana Ipaja on June 18 for a disciplinary hearing. At the camp, she was informed that her service would be extended by two months.

The decision has triggered intense criticism, with many describing it as a politically motivated act aimed at silencing dissent. Human rights activists, including Omoyele Sowore, have condemned the NYSC’s action, accusing the agency of suppressing the voices of young Nigerians.

Presidential aide Temitope Ajayi had earlier responded to calls for punishment against Raye by stating that “capital punishment” in the NYSC context referred only to disciplinary sanctions and not criminal penalties. However, critics argue that the disciplinary action taken against Raye is disproportionate and designed to instill fear among other corps members who may want to speak out.

The NYSC has yet to issue an official statement addressing the reasons for Raye’s extension. Meanwhile, the incident continues to generate public debate on the balance between institutional discipline and freedom of expression, especially among young Nigerians serving under the national scheme.