The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has intervened in a controversy that arose after a corps member allegedly received threats from National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) officials for expressing criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
During an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, TUC President Festus Osifo stated that the NYSC member’s comments were a manifestation of her deep-seated frustration.
“People are suffering, and sometimes, their expressions of discontent reflect personal hardships rather than a calculated effort to destabilise the government,” Osifo remarked.
He emphasised that the government should tolerate such criticism instead of resorting to punitive measures.
The controversy began when Lagos-based corps member Ushie Uguamaye posted a TikTok video denouncing the government’s economic reforms, which she argued have worsened the financial strain on ordinary Nigerians. The video rapidly gained traction, prompting Uguamaye to claim that NYSC officials contacted her, pressuring her to remove the post. So far, NYSC has not issued any official response regarding the matter.
Osifo added that it is vital for the government to build resilience and recognise that emotional outbursts should not be interpreted as direct assaults on authority. He advised that while public officials should welcome constructive criticism, citizens too must ensure that their dissent is expressed respectfully.
Adding to the outcry, Amnesty International released a statement condemning the alleged threats against Uguamaye. The human rights organisation urged the Nigerian government to desist from intimidating critics, noting that “peaceful expression of dissent is a fundamental right protected by both national and international law.” Amnesty International called on authorities to shift their focus from suppressing voices of dissent to addressing the underlying economic issues that are impacting millions of Nigerians.
Uguamaye further revealed that following the viral spread of her TikTok post, she began receiving threatening communications and had her personal details leaked, leaving her fearful for her safety. The incident has sparked a broader debate about the balance between maintaining public order and upholding freedom of speech, especially in the context of widespread economic challenges.
Both the TUC and Amnesty International have called for a more tolerant approach towards criticism, urging the government to engage with the public’s concerns rather than resorting to intimidation tactics.
