The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has issued a detailed response to claims that Corps Member Ushie Rita Uguamaye was denied her Certificate of National Service (CNS) as retaliation for criticising the government.
The NYSC dismissed these claims as “entirely unfounded and false,” attributing the withholding of her certificate to disciplinary breaches unrelated to any political statements.
In a statement released on August 10, 2025, the NYSC Management explained that Rita is one of 131 Corps Members whose certificates were withheld for failing to meet mandatory NYSC requirements. Specifically, Rita’s service year was extended by two months due to her absence at the April 2025 biometrics clearance, a compulsory step for all Corps Members. The NYSC clarified that this action was consistent with its Bye-Laws, which prescribe equal treatment and standard disciplinary procedures for non-compliance.
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“The extension of service is a standard procedure and not unique to Rita’s case,” the statement read. The NYSC called on the public not to politicise the matter, emphasising its long-standing commitment to accountability and fairness.
These clarifications came after widespread social media speculation alleging that Rita’s certificate was withheld in response to her public criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Earlier in the year, Rita gained attention for a viral video criticising the government’s handling of economic issues and describing Lagos as “smelling.”
She later posted a video alleging that her Local Government Inspector (LGI) refused to clear her for the mandatory April biometrics despite her presence, claiming she was told to “go to the back,” had her file seized, and was ordered to leave.
In her post, Rita stated that she was informed she would not receive her certificate due to missing the clearance, a claim the NYSC disputes. She also expressed frustration on social media, saying, “I genuinely wish I wasn’t a Lagos State corps member because it’s a waste of my time,” adding that she intended to move on from the experience.
Human rights activist and SaharaReporters publisher Omoyele Sowore has publicly supported Rita, accusing the NYSC of retaliating against her for her activism. Sowore described the certificate denial as “an injustice of the highest order” and highlighted that Rita’s advocacy had contributed to an increase in corps members’ monthly allowances.
Sowore further recounted a prior incident in March when the Eti-Osa LGI allegedly failed to respond to a summons following Rita’s viral video, despite legal representation.
The issue has attracted attention from various political figures and civil society groups. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar commended Rita’s courage, comparing her to notable Nigerian women activists.
The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, warned against suppressing dissent, while the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) urged the president to instruct the NYSC to cease harassment of Rita.
Conversely, former presidential aide Reno Omokri criticised her public comments, arguing that corps members should remain focused on their service duties and avoid political involvement.
The NYSC reaffirmed its dedication to upholding discipline and fairness, urging responsible public discourse to prevent misinformation from undermining its operations. The situation has sparked debate on the balance between free expression and institutional rules within the NYSC framework
