‘No Politics Involved’: NYSC Defends Two-Month Extension for Outspoken Corps Member

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has extended the service year of Lagos corps member Ushie Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as “Raye,” by two months for missing her April 2025 biometrics clearance.

In a statement posted on X on Sunday, the NYSC dismissed claims that the decision was politically motivated or linked to her public criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

“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,” the statement read.

The scheme explained that Uguamaye (State Code: LA/24B/8325) was among 131 corps members sanctioned for similar clearance violations, in line with NYSC Bye-Laws.

“This extension is a standard procedure and not unique to her case. The principle of equal treatment was only applied in this case,” it said, stressing that service extensions for non-compliance have been a long-standing practice.

Raye became a public figure in March after a viral TikTok video in which she accused the federal government of worsening Nigeria’s economic hardship and inflation.

The NYSC urged the public not to politicise the sanction, reiterating its commitment to fairness and its constitutional mandate.