Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party has reacted to the controversy surrounding the National Youth Service Corps member Ushie Uguamaye who shared her experience on the hardship bedevilling Nigeria.
Reacting to reports of threats against Uguamaye also known as Raye by officials of the NYSC, Obi condemned the intimidation of “voices of reason and truth.
Recall that Raye had decried the growing hardship in the country, stating that she could barely afford basic necessities while serving in Lagos State.
The crop member disclosed this in a video which went viral on various social media platforms.
However, shortly after she posted her video, her action was met with threats from officials of the NYSC who asked her to delete the video from her page.
She was later ordered to appear before a panel at the NYSC secretariat on Monday by 10 am for further action and questioning.
However, in his reaction, Obi said rather than stifle the voice of citizens, it is important for the NYSC and the present administration to dialogue and engage with the people.
“This pattern is not isolated. I, too, have been subjected to threats for daring to offer constructive suggestions and comments.
“I now face daily intimidation, harassment, and name-calling simply for expressing solution-based views on government policies,” Obi said.
Also describing the threat against Raye by government officials as anti-ethical, the former governor urged the present administration to reflect on its approach and recognise that constructive criticism is key to achieving good governance.
He urged Nigerians to remember that the future of the nation lies in their collective courage to speak out against misgovernance, injustice, and intimidation.
Obi said, “Do not let fear stifle your voice. Stand firm, support one another, and continue to advocate for 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.
“A just and prosperous Nigeria should be one where people like Raye are encouraged to speak out about the challenges they face, while those in government take urgent action to address these issues,” he added.
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