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 corps member whose viral video criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration sparked widespread attention.
Raye, a Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, recently went viral after expressing frustration over the rising cost of living in Nigeria. In her video, she accused some NYSC officials of threatening her for speaking out about the economic challenges facing the country.
Atiku and Obi have both commended Raye for her courage and called for her to be supported rather than vilified.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Atiku described Raye as a symbol of a new generation of women advocating for change. “Raye embodies the spirit of a new generation of women who champion the ideals of popular participation and unwavering advocacy in the political sphere. I deeply admire her boldness and wisdom—her fearless resolve to speak truth to power, undeterred by the weight of opposition,” he wrote.
Atiku likened Raye to historic Nigerian women activists such as Gambo Sawaba, Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti, and Margaret Ekpo, who fought for justice and equality. “Rather than being met with hostility, Raye deserves encouragement and support. She is a shining emblem of the Nigerian youth—a testament to the long-held promise that the leaders of tomorrow are already among us, ready to shape a better future,” he added.
Peter Obi also expressed solidarity with Raye, describing her experience as part of a troubling trend in Nigeria. “Raye’s experience highlights a troubling trend in our nation—one where voices of reason and truth are met with intimidation rather than dialogue and engagement,” Obi wrote on his X handle.
The former Anambra State governor revealed that he, too, has faced threats for offering constructive criticism. “I now face daily intimidation, harassment, and name-calling simply for expressing 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 and is most often corrupt,” he stated.
Obi called on President Tinubu’s administration to reflect on its approach to dissent, emphasizing that constructive criticism is essential for democratic progress. “To all patriotic Nigerians: Our nation’s future and development depend on our collective courage to speak out against misgovernance, injustice, and intimidation,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to stand firm and continue advocating for a better Nigeria. “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,” Obi added.
Raye’s viral video has sparked a broader conversation about freedom of expression and the role of youth in holding leaders accountable. Her courage has resonated with many Nigerians, who see her as a voice for a generation grappling with economic hardship and political disillusionment.
