Amnesty International Nigeria has criticized the alleged threats and intimidation directed at Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps member, Ushie Uguamaye, following her viral TikTok video criticizing President Bola Tinubu ’s administration for worsening economic hardship.
In a statement shared on X on Sunday, the human rights organization condemned the reported actions by NYSC officials, asserting that Uguamaye was fully entitled to voice her concerns about the country’s deteriorating 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 traction on social media, openly criticised Tinubu’s leadership, calling him a “terrible leader” and lamenting that financial struggles have made hard work feel futile.
She also complained about Lagos State’s poor sanitation, describing it as a “smelling state.”
Shortly after the video went viral, Uguamaye alleged that she began receiving threats, purportedly from NYSC officials, pressuring her to delete the content.
She took to Instagram to express fears for her safety, stating that her personal details had been leaked and that she was being pressured to report to the NYSC office.
“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’s statement also accused the Nigerian authorities of attempting to silence dissenting voices rather than addressing citizens’ economic grievances.
“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 organization added.
The controversy has sparked a national debate on free speech and the role of the NYSC in suppressing public criticism.
Many Nigerians have taken to social media to demand accountability, with the hashtag #ProtectRaye gaining traction.
Reports state that NYSC has yet to officially respond to the allegations, but the incident, according to multiple reactions to the online content, has amplified concerns over the handling of public criticism amid worsening economic conditions.