Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has voiced his support for Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member Ushie Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, following her claims of receiving threats after posting a viral video criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration. In a statement shared on X on Sunday, Atiku commended Raye’s courage, describing her as a representative of a new generation of politically engaged women dedicated to advocacy and democratic participation. “Raye embodies the spirit of a new generation of women who champion 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 opposition,” Atiku wrote. Drawing comparisons to historic female activists such as Gambo Sawaba, Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti, and Margaret Ekpo, Atiku emphasized the need to support Raye rather than subject her to hostility. “Instead of hostility, Raye deserves encouragement and support. She is a shining emblem of 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. Raye recently gained widespread attention after posting a video in which she criticized government policies and lamented Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions, stating that hard work no longer guarantees financial stability. She also described President Tinubu as a “terrible leader” and questioned the government’s commitment to alleviating citizens’ hardships. Following the video’s circulation, Raye claimed she had been pressured by NYSC officials to delete it and had received threats regarding its content. As of now, authorities have yet to respond to her allegations.
