Obi Reacts to Corps Member’s Viral Video, Says Silencing Dissent Undermines Democracy; Urges Nigerians to Stand Firm Against Misgovernance
Lagos, Nigeria – Former presidential candidate and advocate for good governance, Peter Obi, has condemned the intimidation of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member Ushie Rita Uguamaye, who faced threats from NYSC officials after criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration in a viral TikTok video.
In a strongly worded statement, Obi described the incident as part of a troubling trend in Nigeria, where voices of reason and truth are met with intimidation rather than dialogue. He also revealed that he has faced similar threats for offering constructive criticism on government policies.
Rita’s Ordeal
Ushie Rita Uguamaye, a corps member serving in Lagos State, recently posted an emotional video on TikTok under the handle @talktoraye, where she tearfully expressed frustration over the rising cost of goods and economic hardship in Nigeria. In the video, she described President Tinubu as “terrible” and accused the government of neglecting the plight of ordinary citizens.
Her post quickly went viral, prompting a response from the NYSC. Rita was summoned to the Eti Osa 3 local government office and received multiple calls from NYSC officials, who allegedly threatened her and demanded she delete the video.
In a follow-up video, Rita shared an audio recording of a conversation with an NYSC official who reportedly said, “Are you normal? Pull down that rubbish you put there. You are not talking to your mate.”
Rita, who expressed fear for her safety, stated, “These people know my address and where I live. Now they’ve begun threatening me. I never insulted the president; I said he is terrible. That is not an insult; it is a statement.”
Peter Obi’s Reaction
Peter Obi, in his statement, expressed solidarity with Rita and criticized the government’s approach to dissent. He highlighted that silencing citizens is antithetical to the principles of democracy and good governance.
“The experience of Ushie Rita Uguamaye, also known as Raye, highlights a troubling trend in our nation—one where voices of reason and truth are met with intimidation rather than dialogue and engagement,” Obi said.
He revealed that he, too, has faced daily intimidation, harassment, and name-calling for offering solution-based views on government policies. “Such actions are antithetical to the principles of democracy. A government that silences its citizens is not democratic or one that is subject to accountability and good governance,” he added.
Obi urged the current administration to reflect deeply on its approach to dissent, emphasizing that constructive criticism is a cornerstone of democratic progress.
Call to Action
Obi called on all patriotic Nigerians to stand firm against misgovernance, injustice, and intimidation. He encouraged citizens to continue advocating for a nation where freedom of speech is sacrosanct and leadership is accountable to the people.
“Our nation's future and development depend on our collective courage to speak out,” Obi said. “Do not let fear stifle your voice. Stand firm, support one another, and continue to advocate for the Nigeria we all envision-a nation where freedom of speech is sacrosanct, and leadership is accountable to the people, especially in critical areas such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.”
He concluded by expressing hope for a better Nigeria, stating, “A just and prosperous Nigeria should be one where people like Raye are encouraged to speak out about the challenges they face, while those in government take urgent action to address these issues. A New Nigeria is Possible!”
Public Reaction
Obi’s statement has resonated with many Nigerians, who have taken to social media to express their support for Rita and condemn the NYSC’s actions.
“Peter Obi is right. We cannot allow intimidation to silence us. Rita’s voice represents millions of Nigerians suffering in silence,” one Twitter user wrote.
Another commented, “The government should address the issues Rita raised instead of threatening her. This is not the democracy we fought for.”
The ordeal of Ushie Rita Uguamaye has sparked a national conversation about freedom of speech, accountability, and the role of youth in shaping Nigeria’s future. As Peter Obi and other voices of reason rally behind her, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting democratic values and ensuring that every citizen’s voice is heard.
For now, Rita’s courage in speaking out against economic hardship has inspired many, and her story continues to highlight the urgent need for change in Nigeria.
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