The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has debunked viral claims that Corps Member Ushie Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as “Raye”, was denied her Certificate of National Service because she criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
In a statement released on Sunday, the NYSC described the allegation as false and baseless, insisting that the delay in issuing her certificate is purely procedural.
CLARIFICATION ON NON-ISSUANCE OF CERTIFICATE OF NATIONAL SERVICE TO CORPS USHIE RITA UGUAMAYE, STATE CODE NUMBER LA/24B/8325, BY THE NYSC
The NYSC Management wishes to clarify misleading information circulating on social media regarding Corps Member Ushie Rita Uguamaye, State Code number LA/24B/8325.
Contrary to false claims that she was denied a Certificate of National Service (CNS) due to critical remarks about the government, this assertion is entirely unfounded and false in its entirety.
Rita is among the 131 Corps Members whose Certificates of National Service (CNS) were withheld for valid disciplinary reasons. Specifically, Rita’s service year has been extended by two months for failing to attend the April 2025 biometrics clearance, a decision that aligns with the NYSC Bye-Laws.
It is important to note that this extension is a standard procedure and not unique to her case, and the principle of equal treatment was only applied in this case.
The NYSC Management thus urges the public to approach this matter with understanding, as extending service for non-compliance is a longstanding tradition within the NYSC and should not be politicized.
The NYSC Scheme remains committed to discharging its mandate, in line with the dictates of the constitution.
Nigeria is Ours; Nigeria We Serve.
Management.
Raye, whose service code is LA/24B/8325, went viral earlier this year after a TikTok video in which she described Lagos as “smelling” and criticised the Tinubu government. The clip sparked heavy backlash, forcing her to apologise.
Her case attracted public sympathy from political figures like former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and activist Omoyele Sowore, who alleged that the delay in her certification was politically motivated.
The NYSC, however, maintains that politics had nothing to do with it.
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