Amnesty International Nigeria has condemned the alleged threats and harassment directed at Ushie Uguamaye, a Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, following her popular TikTok video criticising President Bola Tinubu’s government for rising economic hardship.
In a statement posted on X on Sunday, the human rights organisation condemned the reported threats from NYSC officials, emphasising that Uguamaye was entirely within her rights to express her dissatisfaction with the country’s deteriorating economic realities.
“It is perfectly within her right to express discontent peacefully. Instead of threatening her for her opinions on rampant inflation, the authorities should prioritise addressing the country’s economic woes,” Amnesty International stated.
Uguamaye’s video, which garnered momentum on social media, publicly attacked Tinubu’s leadership, calling him a “terrible leader” and bemoaning that financial troubles have made hard labour appear worthless.
She also complained about Lagos State’s inadequate cleanliness, describing it as a “smelling state.”
Shortly after the video went viral, Uguamaye claimed she began receiving threats from NYSC officials, pressing her to remove the footage.
She took to Instagram to voice concerns about her safety, claiming that her personal information had been leaked and that she was being pressed to go to the NYSC office.
“Dear Nigerians, I am already getting threatened by the NYSC board to stop speaking on this issue.
“Less than 24 hours, I’m already getting threatened by the government, starting with the NYSC board.
“They have my address. If you don’t see me online, you know who to hold accountable,” she wrote.
Amnesty International also accused Nigerian officials of aiming to stifle dissenting voices rather than addressing citizens’ economic concerns.
“The Nigerian authorities must stop responding with violence and threats to individuals and groups who express dissenting opinions — in utter disregard for the Nigerian constitution and international law. Holding and voicing dissenting views is not a crime,” the organization added.
The scandal has prompted a national debate on free expression and the role of the NYSC in silencing public criticism.
Many Nigerians have used social media to demand accountability, with the hashtag #ProtectRaye gaining steam.
At the time of filing this report, NYSC has yet to officially respond to the allegations, but the incident, according to multiple reactions to the online content, has amplified concerns over the handling of public criticism amid worsening economic conditions.
