March 17, (THEWILL) – The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, and the Trade Union Congress have condemned alleged threats against a serving National Youth Service Corps member, Ushie Rita Uguamaye, following her online criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Uguamaye, a Lagos-based corps member, had in a viral TikTok video described Tinubu as a “terrible leader” while expressing frustration over the worsening economic situation.
However, in a follow-up video on Sunday, she claimed that NYSC officials had pressured her to delete the initial post.
Reacting to the development, Obi described the reported intimidation as undemocratic, stressing that citizens have the right to express their opinions.
In a post on X, the former Anambra governor said, “The case of Ushie Rita Uguamaye highlights a troubling trend in our nation—one where voices of reason and truth are met with intimidation rather than engagement. Reports indicate that she has faced threats from NYSC officials simply for expressing her concerns about the current administration.”
Obi noted that he had also been subjected to similar treatment for offering constructive criticism of government policies.
“A government that silences its citizens is not democratic. It must embrace accountability and good governance rather than resorting to threats,”* he said.
He urged the Tinubu administration to reconsider its approach to dissent and recognise the importance of constructive criticism in democratic governance.
“Nigerians must not allow fear to silence them. Our country’s future depends on our courage to speak out against misgovernance, injustice, and intimidation. A just and prosperous Nigeria should be one where people like Raye (Uguamaye) are encouraged to speak out, while those in government take urgent action to address pressing national issues,” Obi added.
Similarly, the Trade Union Congress expressed concerns over the reported threats against Uguamaye.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, TUC President, Festus Osifo, stated that the corps member voiced her frustrations like many other Nigerians and should not be targeted for doing so.
“The government must understand that people are frustrated, hungry, and tired. If they decide to vent, they should not be victimised. Imagine a young corps member simply expressing her frustration—how does that threaten the government?” he queried.
Osifo urged the authorities to be more tolerant, patient, and receptive to public grievances rather than adopting a combative approach.
Meanwhile, the NYSC is yet to issue an official statement on the matter.
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