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Sowore to lead protest over Raye’s withheld NYSC certificate.
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NYSC cites missed biometric clearance; Sowore alleges political motive.
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Raye claims she was blocked from completing clearance despite attempts.
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, will today lead a protest against the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) over its alleged refusal to issue a discharge certificate to corps member and content creator, Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the controversy began in March when Uguamaye posted a viral video criticising the Federal Government’s policies, describing President Bola Tinubu as a “terrible leader,” lamenting poor living conditions in Lagos, and calling the NYSC scheme “not beneficial.”
Following backlash, she apologised, saying her comments on Lagos were misunderstood.
Last week, Uguamaye accused the NYSC of withholding her certificate, alleging officials claimed she missed her April clearance due to her local government inspector’s refusal to sign her attendance. NYSC authorities responded on Sunday, stating her service year had been extended by two months for failing to attend the April 2025 biometric clearance, and that she was one of 131 corps members penalised.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Prime Time on Monday, Sowore alleged that Uguamaye’s punishment was politically motivated, linking it directly to her criticism of the president. “She is the only one who spoke up against the president who was denied her certificate. We have a clear nexus between what she said and her punishment,” he said.
Sowore further insisted that Uguamaye had proof she attempted to complete her clearance but was prevented by NYSC officials. He urged Nigerians to join the protest in solidarity, framing the issue as a test of democratic freedoms and free speech in the country.
