The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has voiced its support for Ushie Uguamaye, a Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member known online as Raye, after she claimed to have received threats for criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
TUC President Festus Osifo, speaking on Sunday Politics on Channels Television, acknowledged the frustration behind Raye’s remarks and urged the government to be more tolerant of criticism instead of targeting individuals who express their opinions.
“They [the government] need to develop resilience and understand that people are frustrated, hungry, and tired,” Osifo said. “If people decide to vent, I strongly believe the government shouldn’t take it personally or go after them.”
Specifically addressing Raye’s situation, Osifo questioned why she would face any threats.
“Imagine a young lady simply fulfilling her NYSC duties—what real power does she have to bring down the government? She’s just expressing personal frustration,” he stated. “The government must show more patience and tolerance because Nigerians are going through a lot right now.”
Viral Video and Alleged Threats
Raye gained attention after a video she posted on TikTok (@talktoraye) went viral. In it, she criticized government policies, lamenting Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions and saying that hard work no longer guarantees financial stability. She also called Tinubu a “terrible leader” and questioned his administration’s commitment to improving citizens’ lives.
After the video spread online, Raye claimed she received threats, allegedly from NYSC officials, pressuring her to take it down.
Support from Prominent Figures
Since Raye spoke out about the alleged threats, several prominent Nigerians and organizations have rallied behind her. These include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 Lagos governorship candidate Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, as well as human rights groups Amnesty International and the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA).
Meanwhile, the NYSC has yet to release an official statement on the matter.
