NYSC refutes claims of extending service for corps member who criticized Tinubu.

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The National Youth Service Corps has denied extending the service year of a Lagos corper, Rita  Uguamaye, also known as Raye, for criticising the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

‎PUNCH Metro reports that Raye became an Internet sensation following her public criticism of the present administration, which she described as worsening economic conditions.

‎Uguamaye had, in a viral video shared on her TikTok account, @talktoraye, expressed frustration over Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions, lamenting the high inflation and economic hardship.

‎Uguamaye had also criticised the President by describing him as a “terrible leader” while questioning the government’s efforts to alleviate the hardship faced by the citizens.

‎Following her allegations, several individuals, including ex-Vice President Abubakar Atiku and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, condemned the alleged threat to her life.

‎Sharing a news caption on Tuesday that read, “NYSC punitively extends Raye’s service year by 2 months for criticising Tinubu’s administration over hardship”, Sowore vowed to protest at the NYSC passing out parade.

‎Sowore wrote, “This Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu regime might go down with Rita Raye’s National Youth Service Corps matter.”

‎“This is not acceptable, we will mobilise down to the Passing Out Parade except Rita is allowed to complete her NYSC national service without let or hindrance.”

‎When contacted on Tuesday, the acting NYSC Director, Press and Public Relations, Carol Embu, said the decision to extend a corps member’s service year is made when such a person is passing out.

‎She disclosed that there are guidelines that would be followed if such an action were to be taken.

‎“Who is Sowore? Does he work with the NYSC? So, how come you are listening to him? I don’t understand how she will get an extension if she is still serving.

‎“NYSC is not an irresponsible organisation; we work with rules and regulations. She is still serving; if she has any issues, we will wait and see,” Embu said.

‎Meanwhile, our correspondent could not independently verify the claim of service year extension from Uguamaye.

‎She did not also make any post on such claim on her social media handles.

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