The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has denied reports that it withheld the Certificate of National Service (CNS) of corps member Ushie Rita Uguamaye because she criticized the government on social media.
In a statement signed by Caroline Embu, Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, the NYSC described the viral claims as “misleading” and urged the public to get the facts right.
Rita, with service number LA/24B/8325, recently went viral after alleging that she was denied her certificate for expressing critical views about the government. The claim sparked outrage and support online.
However, the NYSC clarified that Rita was among 131 corps members whose certificates were withheld for disciplinary reasons, and not because of any political statement.
According to the NYSC, Rita’s service year was extended by two months for failing to attend the mandatory biometrics clearance in April 2025—an act that violates NYSC rules.
“This extension is a standard procedure and not unique to her,” the statement read. “Equal treatment was applied in this case, in line with our Bye-Laws.”
The agency urged the public not to politicize routine disciplinary actions, adding that such extensions are common and have always been part of NYSC’s process to enforce discipline.
“The NYSC Scheme remains committed to its mandate in line with the constitution. Nigeria is ours; Nigeria we serve,” the statement concluded.
