NYSC EXTENDS CORPS MEMBER’S SERVICE YEAR AFTER VIRAL CRITICISM OF TINUBU ADMINISTRATION. (PHOTO).

 NYSC Extends Corps Member’s Service Year After Viral Criticism of Tinubu Administration

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has extended the service year of corps member Ms. Rita Ushie, popularly known as Raye on Instagram, by two months in an apparent disciplinary action following her viral video criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Raye, who was one month away from completing her mandatory national service, gained widespread attention in March after posting a video highlighting Nigeria’s worsening economic challenges. In the video, she claimed NYSC officials had threatened her and demanded she remove the content, sparking public outrage at the time.

The issue resurfaced on June 18 when Raye was unexpectedly summoned to appear before a disciplinary panel at the NYSC orientation camp in Iyana Ipaja, Lagos, without a formal invitation or letter, according to sources. Jonathan Ugbal, South-South Coordinator of the Take It Back Movement, who has been supporting Raye’s family, said she traveled to Lagos despite financial constraints. “She was met by the Local Government Instructor who asked her to return again this week,” Ugbal told newsmen.

After facing the panel, Raye reportedly apologized to NYSC staff upset by the public backlash from her video. However, her family was later informed of the two-month extension of her service year. “Her mother called me, saying she was crying over the phone after being told her service year had been extended,” Ugbal said, adding that Raye is currently in distress.

The NYSC has not issued an official statement on the matter. Meanwhile, Omoyele Sowore, convener of RevolutionNow, has threatened to organize a massive protest if the NYSC does not reverse its decision.

The case has reignited debates about freedom of expression and the treatment of corps members, with many calling for transparency from the NYSC regarding the disciplinary action.