Raye’s NYSC certificate controversy heats up as Sowore demands immediate reversal of service extension over alleged retaliation

Raye’s NYSC certificate controversy has sparked widespread outrage as human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore demands that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) immediately reverse the two-month extension imposed on Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye.

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Raye, who became a viral sensation after criticizing the Nigerian government’s worsening economic conditions, was reportedly denied her Certificate of National Service following the mandatory one-year service.

At the NYSC headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, Sowore, alongside activist and lawyer Inibehe Effiong, confronted officials, calling for Raye’s immediate release from the punitive extension.

The NYSC had justified the extension by alleging that Raye failed to complete her biometric clearance, a claim Sowore dismissed as a mere pretext for retaliation.

“As you know, the NYSC said she missed signing her clearance once. Usually, they only warn members after missing three clearances. This is clearly punishment for her speaking out against the Tinubu administration,” Sowore said.

Effiong emphasized that the certificate represents service to the nation, not allegiance to any president or government agency, condemning the NYSC’s actions as an abuse of state institutions.

“What Raye did was to serve her nation, not the government. Denying her certificate for political reasons is a dangerous precedent,” he said.

According to Effiong, Raye’s ordeal began after she publicly labeled the President a “terrible leader,” a stance shared by many Nigerians, leading to intimidation tactics including the seizure of her file by an Etiosa local government official.

Both activists urged Nigerians to stand against what they called the scapegoating and intimidation of outspoken citizens.

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“We condemn this treatment in the strongest terms and call on Nigerians to join us in opposing these injustices. If this is allowed, who will be targeted next?” Sowore warned.