By our reporter
Human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) leader, Omoyele Sowore, on Tuesday led a protest at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) headquarters in Abuja to demand the immediate release of the discharge certificate of content creator, Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye.
Sowore was joined by human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong and other activists, who accused the NYSC of politically targeting Raye over her criticism of the government. The protesters carried placards and chanted solidarity songs, vowing to continue their demonstrations until the certificate is released.
Raye reportedly completed her one-year national service but was denied her certificate after the NYSC claimed she missed an April 2025 biometric clearance. The agency says her service was extended by two months in line with standard procedure.
Raye disputes the claim, insisting she attempted the clearance but was blocked by a Local Government Inspector despite submitting all required documents. Supporters argue that other corps members in similar situations were not penalised, describing the move as an abuse of power.
The NYSC maintains the action is purely administrative and not politically motivated. Meanwhile, the standoff has ignited widespread public debate, with activists warning that the issue could set a dangerous precedent for freedom of expression in Nigeria.
