SERAP Urges Tinubu’s Intervention as NYSC Withholds Corps Member Raye’s Certificate Over Viral TikTok Video

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to step in regarding the withheld discharge certificate of Ushie Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as “Raye,” a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member who recently completed her service year.

Raye, who gained social media attention for a viral TikTok video in which she criticized the state of the Nigerian economy under the current administration, claims she has faced targeted intimidation by NYSC officials. According to her, following the video’s circulation, she was pressured by officials to remove the content. On the day of her passing out, she was denied her discharge certificate.

In a statement issued on Sunday, SERAP described the development as a threat to free speech and democratic values.

“Intimidating, harassing and silencing critical or dissenting voices under the guise of vague and unsubstantiated national security concerns is a fundamental breach of the Nigerian Constitution and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations,” the organization stated.

The NYSC, however, denied any political motive. In a response issued the same day, spokesperson Caroline Embu explained that Raye was among 131 corps members whose certificates were withheld due to non-attendance at the mandatory April biometric clearance. She clarified that the two-month service extension imposed on her was a standard disciplinary action in line with the scheme’s regulations.

But Raye has pushed back against the NYSC’s account. In a video that went viral on Saturday, she alleged that her Local Government Inspector deliberately obstructed her from completing the clearance process — at one point allegedly confiscating her file and asking her to leave.

The situation has sparked strong reactions from notable Nigerians. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and human rights lawyer Femi Falana have publicly criticized the NYSC’s handling of the matter. Activist Omoyele Sowore has also weighed in, commending Raye’s activism for helping spotlight the plight of corps members. He credited her with influencing the recent increment in corps members’ allowances and vowed to pursue justice on her behalf.

The case continues to fuel national discourse on freedom of expression, accountability, and the rights of youth under public institutions.