Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate Peter Obi have thrown their support behind Ushie Ushie Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member who recently went viral for criticizing the Federal Government’s handling of the economy.
Raye, serving in Lagos, accused officials of the NYSC of threatening her after she publicly spoke out against the rising cost of living under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Her remarks sparked a nationwide conversation about economic hardship and the suppression of dissent.
Atiku praised Raye as a bold and courageous young woman, likening her to historical female activists such as Gambo Sawaba, Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti, and Margaret Ekpo.
“Rather than being met with hostility, Raye deserves encouragement and support. She represents the spirit of a new generation of women who champion popular participation and fearless advocacy,” Atiku wrote on X.
Similarly, Peter Obi condemned any attempt to silence Raye, warning that her ordeal reflects a broader pattern of intimidation against dissenting voices in Nigeria.
“I, too, have been subjected to threats simply for offering constructive suggestions on governance,” Obi stated. “A government that silences its citizens is neither democratic nor accountable.”
He urged the Federal Government to embrace criticism as a tool for democratic progress and called on Nigerians to continue speaking out against injustice, misgovernance, and economic hardship.
As Raye’s case continues to generate public discourse, civil society organizations and rights advocates are calling for greater protection of free speech, particularly for young Nigerians daring to challenge the status quo.
