TUC Backs Raye Amid Threats

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has shown support for Ushie Uguamaye, also known as Raye, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member from Lagos, who claims to have received threats after criticizing the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, TUC President Festus Osifo acknowledged the frustration behind Raye’s comments. He called on the government to exercise more tolerance toward critics and avoid targeting individuals for expressing their opinions.

Osifo emphasized the need for the government to understand the public’s frustrations. “People are frustrated, hungry, and tired. If they choose to express their frustration, the government should not take it personally or go after such individuals,” he stated.

Regarding Raye’s situation, Osifo questioned the reasons behind any alleged threats. “Imagine a young woman simply fulfilling her NYSC duties—how could she possibly be seen as a threat to the government? Her comments are just an expression of personal frustration,” he added. “The government needs to be more patient, resilient, and tolerant, as Nigerians are enduring significant challenges right now.”

Raye recently gained attention after a video she posted criticizing government policies went viral. In the video, shared on her TikTok account @talktoraye, she voiced her dissatisfaction with Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions and lamented that hard work no longer ensures financial stability. She labeled President Tinubu as a “terrible leader” and questioned the government’s commitment to alleviating the hardships faced by citizens.

After the video spread, Raye alleged that she faced threats from NYSC officials, urging her to take the post down.

Her claims have drawn support from prominent Nigerians, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Lagos State 2023 gubernatorial candidate Gbadebo Rhode-Vivour, as well as human rights organizations like Amnesty International and the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA).

As of now, the NYSC has yet to issue an official statement regarding the matter.