The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has called on the Nigerian government to exercise patience and tolerance towards National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member Ushie Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, following her viral TikTok video criticising President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Raye, currently serving in Lagos, had spoken out against the government’s economic policies, highlighting the hardship faced by ordinary Nigerians due to recent reforms.
Her comments quickly sparked debate on social media, with reports that NYSC officials allegedly contacted her, demanding that she take down the video.
Speaking on Sunday Politics on Channels Television, TUC President Festus Osifo urged the federal government not to take punitive action against Raye, stating that her outburst stemmed from frustration rather than an intentional attack.
“They (government) have to develop this resilience to understand that people are frustrated, people are hungry, people are tired. So, if they decide to vent, I strongly believe that the government should not personalise it and come after such individuals,” Osifo said.
He emphasised that Nigerians are experiencing severe economic challenges and should not be punished for expressing their frustrations.
Meanwhile, Amnesty International has condemned the alleged threats against Raye, urging Nigerian authorities to respect freedom of speech.
In a statement posted on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the organisation called for an end to intimidation against individuals voicing dissent.
“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 statement read.