SERAP Urges Tinubu to Stop NYSC Harassment of Corps Member Over Viral Video

SERAP has urged President Tinubu to stop the NYSC from harassing corps member Ushie Uguamaye over her viral video criticizing the government, warning that legal action will be taken if the intimidation continues.

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to end the intimidation and harassment of a corps member, Ushie Uguamaye, after she criticized the government in a viral TikTok video.

Uguamaye, serving in Lagos, posted a video lamenting the rising cost of living, calling Tinubu a “terrible president” and describing Lagos as a “smelling state.” Shortly after, she claimed she received calls from NYSC officials demanding she take down the video and was later summoned to appear before a panel at the NYSC Eti-Osa secretariat on March 17, 2025. She also expressed concerns about her safety, alleging her personal details were leaked and that threats against her were escalating.

Reacting on Sunday, March 16, 2025, SERAP condemned the NYSC’s alleged actions, asserting that freedom of expression is a fundamental right. The organization warned that if the intimidation continues, legal action will be taken.

“Everyone has a right to criticize their government without fear of reprisals. Freedom of expression is a fundamental right. We’ll see in court if the threat is not immediately withdrawn,” SERAP stated.

The group urged the Tinubu administration to ensure Uguamaye’s safety and prevent any further intimidation, emphasizing that the NYSC must stop treating criticism as a crime.