Amnesty International Nigeria has condemned alleged threats against Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member Ushie Uguamaye after her viral TikTok video criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration over rising economic hardship.
In a statement on X on Sunday, the human rights organisation denounced reported threats from NYSC officials, stressing that Uguamaye was within her rights to express frustration over the country’s economic situation.
“It is perfectly within her right to express discontent peacefully. Instead of threatening her for her opinions on rampant inflation, the authorities should prioritise addressing the country’s economic woes,” Amnesty International stated.
Uguamaye’s video, which gained widespread attention, described Tinubu as a “terrible leader” and lamented the struggles Nigerians face due to economic difficulties.
She also criticised Lagos State’s sanitation, calling it a “smelling state.”
Following the video’s circulation, Uguamaye claimed she began receiving threats, allegedly from NYSC officials, pressuring her to delete the content.
She took to Instagram to voice concerns about her safety, saying her personal details had been leaked.
“Dear Nigerians, I am already getting threatened by the NYSC board to stop speaking on this issue.
“Less than 24 hours, I’m already getting threatened by the government, starting with the NYSC board.
“They have my address. If you don’t see me online, you know who to hold accountable,” she wrote.
Amnesty International accused the Nigerian authorities of silencing dissent rather than addressing citizens’ concerns.
“The Nigerian authorities must stop responding with violence and threats to individuals and groups who express dissenting opinions — in utter disregard for the Nigerian constitution and international law.
“Holding and voicing dissenting views is not a crime,” the organisation added.
The controversy has sparked debate on free speech and the NYSC’s role in suppressing public criticism. Many Nigerians have taken to social media with the hashtag #ProtectRaye, demanding accountability.
NYSC has yet to respond to the allegations.
