NYSC Member Raye Blasts Tinubu, Calls Lagos ‘Filthy’ in Viral Rant
Ushie Rita Uguamaye, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member popularly known as Raye, has found herself at the center of a national storm following a viral TikTok video in which she criticized Nigeria’s economic conditions, labeled President Bola Tinubu a “terrible leader,” and described Lagos as having a foul smell.
The video, part of a self-initiated 30-day rant challenge to highlight societal issues, ignited widespread debate, prompting an apology from Raye, intervention from prominent figures, and scrutiny from NYSC authorities.
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In her initial video, posted last week, Raye expressed frustration over Nigeria’s economic hardship, soaring inflation, and the inability of hard work to guarantee financial stability. She pointedly remarked that Lagos “smells like shit,” attributing it to a noticeable difference in air quality and atmosphere as a visitor to the state.
This is the video that Raye made about the hardship in Nigeria that got her threatened by NYSC . I didn’t even see the video before now . But because it disturbs the high and mighty so much, please let’s share and make this more viral and get to everyone
— Dr Penking (@drpenking) March 15, 2025
pic.twitter.com/UIN8cq15SG
The video quickly gained traction online, resonating with many Nigerians who share similar grievances, but also drawing ire from Lagos residents who felt insulted by her characterization of their city. Her criticism of President Tinubu further fueled the controversy, amplifying the video’s reach across social media platforms.
The backlash was swift. Raye soon alleged that she received threats from NYSC officials, who reportedly pressured her to remove the video. In a follow-up clip, she claimed she was summoned to appear before the NYSC Local Government Inspector (LGI) in Eti-Osa, Lagos, on March 17, 2025, at 10 a.m. for questioning. This development sparked concerns about free speech and potential disciplinary action, drawing the attention of human rights advocates and political figures.
On March 17, Omoyele Sowore, a prominent human rights activist and 2023 presidential candidate, stepped in to support Raye. Sowore announced social media that he had met with her in Lagos and would accompany her to the NYSC office alongside a team of lawyers, including Festus Ogun, Yinka Oyesomi, Inibehe Effiong, and Justice Segun Ojienoh.
National Service with Grit: The Inspiring Journey of National Youth Service Corps @officialnyscng member, Ushie Rita Uguamaye "Raye" in the Pursuit of Social Justice! #tinubuisadisaster #RevolutionNow pic.twitter.com/AQQ3MovcDj
— Omoyele Sowore (@YeleSowore) March 18, 2025
He framed the situation as a test of democratic principles, criticizing the intimidation of dissenting voices. However, upon arriving at the Eti-Osa LGI office, Sowore reported that the officials scheduled to meet Raye had “absconded,” leaving the group waiting without resolution. This twist further heightened public interest, with many questioning the NYSC’s handling of the matter.
Other notable figures also weighed in. Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, condemned the alleged threats against Raye, calling for dialogue rather than suppression. On social media, he wrote, “The National Youth Corps member, Ushie Rita Uguamaye, recently had an experience that highlights a troubling trend in our nation—one where voices of reason and truth are met with intimidation rather than dialogue.”
Similarly, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar praised Raye’s courage, likening her to historical female activists like Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, and urged authorities to support rather than silence her. In contrast, former Senator Ben Murray-Bruce called for an end to online government criticism, suggesting a need for respite from such discourse.
Raye embodies the spirit of a new generation of women who champion the ideals of popular participation and unwavering advocacy in the political sphere.
— Atiku Abubakar (@atiku) March 16, 2025
I deeply admire her boldness and wisdom—her fearless resolve to speak truth to power, undeterred by the weight of opposition.…
Facing mounting pressure, Raye issued a public apology on March 17 via Instagram and TikTok. She stated, “I want to first of all say that I AM SORRY to the people who were born and raised in Lagos state if you feel offended by what I said. I am sorry!” She explained that her comment about Lagos was an observation from a visitor’s perspective, not an intent to demean the state or its residents, and expressed regret if her phrasing triggered emotional reactions.
However, she remained silent on her criticism of President Tinubu, neither retracting nor addressing it further in her apology. Raye also defended her broader economic complaints, noting that despite working over 45 hours a week, she struggles to afford leisure activities—a sentiment she believes many Nigerians share.
The Lagos State Government responded critically to Raye’s initial remarks. Kunle Adesina, Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, rebuked her, arguing that those who criticize Lagos often contribute to its challenges by migrating there in large numbers, straining infrastructure.
He pointed to Raye’s active participation in the city’s nightlife, as seen in her TikTok posts, as evidence of her benefiting from the state she maligned.
