NYSC Clarifies Withdrawal of Corps Member’s Certificate After Viral Criticism of Tinubu
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has addressed widespread reports surrounding the withdrawal of the discharge certificate of Ms. Rita Ushie Uguamaye, a corps member who recently went viral after openly criticizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the state of the nation.
Uguamaye made headlines after accusing the Federal Government of subjecting corps members to hardship due to delays in paying the recently approved increase in monthly allowances. The allowance had been raised from ₦33,000 to ₦77,000, but according to her, the reviewed payment had not been disbursed promptly.
Her video sparked mixed reactions nationwide — with some Nigerians praising her courage, while others argued that such public criticism was improper for a serving corps member.
Reports later emerged that her service year had been extended as a disciplinary measure, and fresh claims surfaced alleging that her discharge certificate had been withheld due to her remarks.
In a statement issued on Monday, the NYSC management dismissed claims that Uguamaye’s certificate was withdrawn because of her comments about the government.
“The NYSC Management wishes to clarify misleading information circulating on social media regarding Corps Member Ushie Rita Uguamaye, State Code number LA/24B/8325,” the statement read.
“Contrary to false claims, she was not denied a Certificate of National Service due to critical remarks about the government. Rita is among the 131 corps members whose certificates were withheld for valid disciplinary reasons. Specifically, her service year was extended by two months for failing to attend the April 2025 biometrics clearance — a decision in line with the NYSC Bye-Laws.”
The NYSC stressed that the extension of service for such infractions is a standard and long-standing practice, applied equally to all corps members regardless of personal circumstances or public profile.
“The public is urged to understand that this is not a political issue but a matter of compliance with established regulations,” the statement added. “The NYSC remains committed to carrying out its mandate in line with the constitution. Nigeria is ours; Nigeria we serve.”
The development comes amid growing debates over freedom of expression for corps members, particularly in the age of social media where disciplinary actions often attract public scrutiny.
