Sowore Leads Protest at NYSC Headquarters Over Withheld Certificate of Corps Member ‘Raye’

Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, on Tuesday led a protest at the headquarters of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Abuja, demanding the immediate release of the discharge certificate of corps member Ushie Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as “Raye.”

Sowore, accompanied by other activists and human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong, had announced the protest on Monday, vowing to ensure that the female corps member receives her certificate. The protesters accuse the NYSC of unjustly punishing Raye for her social media activism.

The controversy began after Raye posted a viral video in March 2025, where she criticized the economic hardship under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Following the video, the NYSC reportedly withheld her discharge certificate and extended her service year by two months. Raye and her supporters claim this is an act of political retaliation.

However, the NYSC management has vehemently denied these allegations. In a statement issued on Sunday, the agency clarified that the certificate was withheld for “valid disciplinary reasons.” According to the NYSC, Raye’s service year was extended because she failed to attend the mandatory April 2025 biometric clearance. The NYSC further stated that this is a standard procedure and that Raye is among 131 corps members who have faced similar disciplinary action for non-compliance with the scheme’s bye-laws.

While the NYSC insists its action is based on regulations, Raye has countered that she presented herself for the April clearance but was allegedly refused by a local government inspector. The case has drawn criticism from prominent figures, including lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), who has described the NYSC’s action as illegal and a “cheap demonstration of over-zealousness.” The protest highlights a growing national debate over freedom of expression and institutional regulations within Nigeria.