Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has publicly backed Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps member Ushie Uguamaye, also known as Raye, who allegedly received threats after posting a viral video criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
In a statement on X on Sunday, Atiku praised Raye’s bravery, calling her “a symbol of a new generation of politically engaged women committed to advocacy and democratic participation.”
“Raye embodies the spirit of a new generation of women who champion the ideals of popular participation and unwavering advocacy in the political sphere,” Atiku wrote. “I deeply admire her boldness and wisdom—her fearless resolve to speak truth to power, undeterred by the weight of opposition.”
The former presidential candidate compared Raye to historic female activists like Gambo Sawaba, Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti, and Margaret Ekpo, who were influential figures in Nigeria’s political history. He emphasized that Raye deserves encouragement rather than hostility.
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“She is a shining emblem of the Nigerian youth—a testament to the long-held promise that the leaders of tomorrow are already among us, ready to shape a better future,” Atiku added.
Raye, currently serving in Lagos, gained attention after posting a TikTok video criticizing government policies.
In the video on her account #talktoraye, she expressed frustration over Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions, stating that hard work no longer guarantees financial stability.
She described Tinubu as a “terrible leader” and questioned the government’s efforts to alleviate citizens’ hardships.
Following the video’s circulation, Raye claimed to have received threatening messages, allegedly from NYSC officials pressuring her to remove the content.
In a subsequent video, she captured a call from an NYSC official saying, “Are you normal? Keep quiet and bring down the video you posted.”
Meanwhile, Amnesty International has also condemned these alleged threats, stating on X that “It is perfectly within her right to express discontent peacefully.
Instead of threatening her for her opinions on rampant inflation, the authorities should be prioritizing addressing the country’s economic woes.”
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The human rights organization further criticized Nigerian authorities for responding with “violence and threats to individuals and groups who express dissenting opinions,” emphasizing that “Holding and voicing dissenting views is not a crime.”
Government authorities have not yet commented on Raye’s allegations.