Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has announced plans to lead a protest on Tuesday against the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for withholding the discharge certificate of Rita Uguamaye, a corps member and content creator popularly known as Raye.
Raye came under public attention in March after posting a video online where she criticised the federal government, described President Bola Tinubu as a “terrible leader,” and called the NYSC scheme “not beneficial.” She also complained about the living conditions in Lagos. Although she later apologised and said her comments were misunderstood, the backlash continued.
Speaking on Arise TV’s Prime Time on Monday, Sowore said the protest is to demand justice for the corps member. He believes her punishment is politically motivated.
“She is the only one who spoke up against the president and was denied her certificate. There is a clear connection between what she said and the punishment,” he said.
Some reports claim that Raye failed to complete her one-month clearance, but Sowore insists she has evidence showing that she made efforts to comply and was turned away by NYSC officials.
“For those saying she didn’t do the clearance, she has proof that she went there and they refused her,” Sowore added.
The NYSC has yet to release an official statement on the matter. The protest is expected to draw attention to broader concerns about free speech and fair treatment within the youth service programme.
