By Chiagoziem Abosi
Backstory: Why Raye Went Viral in the First Place
In March, Rita Ushie Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, went viral for bravely speaking her truth during an Instagram Live session. She expressed her frustration over rising prices and harsh economic realities, then called out the leadership with a bold statement: “Tinubu, you are a terrible person. What are you doing? Are you even doing anything?” Her blunt delivery sparked the now-famous 30 Days Rant Challenge and even led to calls for punitive action from critics.
The New Twist: How NYSC Got Involved
Fast forward to yesterday. In a dramatic turn of events, Raye revealed via Instagram Live that she was denied clearance at her NYSC Orientation Camp. According to her, she attempted to enter twice, but the Local Government Inspector (LGI), Mrs. Veronica Abela at Eti Osa, blocked her despite her pleading and presenting her Clearance Letter. Raye stated, “I was there, I submitted everything. They just refused to let me in.”
Shortly after, NYSC announced on social media that her Certificate of National Service would be withheld and her service extended by two months, citing a failure to complete the April 2025 biometric clearance, a standard procedure for 131 corps members who missed it.
What Raye and Her Lawyer Allege
Her lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, criticized NYSC’s explanation, insisting that Raye attempted clearance multiple times but was inexplicably barred from completing it. He stated, “The NYSC’s claim that Raye’s service year was extended due to her failure to attend the April biometric clearance is false.” He described this action as a betrayal of NYSC’s guiding principles.
Public Response: Political Voices Weigh In
Atiku Abubakar condemned the decision as “impunity,” questioning why a corps member would lose her certificate despite serving without complaint. “It is unacceptable,” he said.
Femi Falana, a rights lawyer, characterized the move as “overzealousness” and reminded that the freedom to criticize is constitutionally protected under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution.
NYSC maintains that she must adhere to the rules, and missing biometric clearance invites sanctions. However, in Raye’s case, the perception matters as much as the policy. She did not actually miss her clearance—does this imply that NYSC does not follow its own rules?
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