Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed support for a Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Ushie Uguamaye, also known as Raye, who claims she has received threats after posting a viral video criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, Atiku praised Raye’s courage, describing her as a representative of a new generation of politically active women who are advocating for democracy and public participation.
“Raye embodies the spirit of young women who stand for active political engagement and advocacy. I deeply admire her boldness in speaking truth to power, despite opposition,” Atiku stated.
He compared Raye to historical Nigerian female activists like Gambo Sawaba, Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti, and Margaret Ekpo, who played significant roles in shaping the country’s political landscape.
Atiku urged Nigerians to support Raye rather than threaten her, stating that young people like her are the future leaders of the nation.
Raye, who is currently serving as an NYSC member in Lagos, gained attention after her video criticizing government policies went viral.
In the video, posted on her TikTok account #talktoraye, she expressed frustration over Nigeria’s worsening economic situation, claiming that hard work no longer guarantees financial stability.
She openly criticized President Tinubu’s leadership, calling him a “terrible leader” and questioning his administration’s commitment to improving citizens’ lives.
Following the video’s spread, Raye alleged that NYSC officials pressured her to delete it and that she received threats regarding her safety.
However, authorities have not yet responded to these claims.
