The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has intervened in the ongoing controversy involving a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member allegedly threatened by NYSC officials for criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
TUC President, Festus Osifo, speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, said the corps member was merely expressing frustration and urged the government to show tolerance toward critics rather than persecuting them.
The corps member, Ushie Uguamaye, based in Lagos, had posted a TikTok video condemning the Tinubu administration over the widespread hardship caused by its economic policies. After the video went viral, she alleged that NYSC officials contacted and threatened her to take down the post. NYSC has yet to issue an official statement on the matter.
Osifo cautioned the government against taking such criticisms personally, noting, “People are frustrated, hungry, and tired. If they decide to vent, the government should not see it as a personal attack. Imagine a young lady doing her NYSC — what real power does she have to bring down the government? She is only airing her frustrations.”
He further urged the government to exercise patience and tolerance, acknowledging the difficult times Nigerians are facing. However, he also advised that criticisms should be expressed with decorum and within acceptable bounds.
Meanwhile, Amnesty International, in a statement on Sunday, also condemned the alleged threats against Uguamaye, calling on the Federal Government to respect the rights of citizens to express dissent.
“Nigerian authorities must stop using threats and intimidation against individuals and groups who voice dissenting opinions. Expressing critical views is not a crime under the Nigerian constitution or international law,” Amnesty said in a post on its official X handle.
