TUC Urges FG Not to Punish NYSC Member Over Viral Video Criticizing Tinubu’s Government

Union Calls for Tolerance Amid Rising Public Frustration

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has urged the Federal Government not to take punitive actions against Ushie Uguamaye, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member who recently spoke out against President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The TUC made this appeal following reports that NYSC officials allegedly threatened the corps member after her viral video criticizing the government’s economic policies.

Uguamaye, a Lagos-based corps member, posted a TikTok video expressing her frustration over the economic hardship Nigerians are currently facing. Her comments quickly gained widespread attention, prompting NYSC officials to reportedly contact her and demand that she delete the video.

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TUC President Calls for Understanding

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, TUC President Festus Osifo defended the corps member, emphasizing that she vented out of frustration rather than attempting to undermine the government. He advised the government to tolerate criticisms rather than suppress dissenting voices.

“They (government) have to develop this resilience to understand that people are frustrated, people are hungry, people are tired. So, if they decide to vent, I strongly believe that the government should not personalize it and come after such individuals,” Osifo stated.

He further questioned the perceived threat of the young corps member’s comments to the government, urging officials to exercise patience and understanding during this difficult period.

“Imagine a young lady carrying out her NYSC function, what does she really have to do to bring down the government? So, it is about personal frustration that she has aired.”

Osifo insisted that instead of targeting individuals who voice their frustrations, the government should focus on addressing the economic challenges affecting millions of Nigerians.

Economic Reforms and Public Dissatisfaction

Since President Tinubu took office in May 2023, several economic policies and reforms have led to rising inflation, fuel price hikes, and increased cost of living. These changes, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira, have triggered widespread frustration among citizens, particularly youths and workers.

With Nigeria experiencing record-high food prices and unemployment, many citizens have turned to social media to express their grievances. Uguamaye’s viral video is just one of several instances where young Nigerians have publicly criticized the government’s handling of the economy.

The NYSC, a compulsory one-year service program for graduates, is known for its strict policies on political neutrality. However, the reported threats against Uguamaye have sparked debates on freedom of expression and whether corps members should be penalized for criticizing the government.

TUC Warns Against Suppressing Free Speech

The TUC President emphasized that the government must learn to tolerate public criticism, especially in a democracy where people have the right to freedom of expression.

“So, I think that the government has to persevere much more, they have to be more tolerant, and they have to have this deep level of patience with Nigerians because people are passing through a lot as it stands today,” Osifo added.

While defending Uguamaye’s right to express her views, Osifo also advised critics to maintain a level of decorum in their criticisms. He urged Nigerians to engage in constructive criticism that holds the government accountable while avoiding inflammatory or disrespectful remarks.

“Critics should always criticize the government within the expected norm and with some level of decorum.”

Growing Concerns Over Government Response to Criticism

The case of Uguamaye has further fueled concerns about how the Tinubu administration handles dissent and criticism. Civil society groups and human rights activists have repeatedly warned against attempts to silence critics through intimidation or legal action.

With social media playing a key role in shaping public opinion, government institutions like the NYSC may face increasing challenges in policing the online activities of corps members. Many Nigerians believe that economic reforms should be the government’s main focus, rather than suppressing public discourse.

What Happens Next?

As the controversy continues, the federal government and the NYSC leadership have yet to officially respond to the TUC’s appeal. It remains unclear whether Uguamaye will face disciplinary actions or if the NYSC will drop the alleged threats against her.

Meanwhile, calls for tolerance, dialogue, and accountability continue to grow as Nigerians navigate the harsh realities of economic reforms. The TUC’s intervention highlights the need for a more open and understanding approach to public criticism, ensuring that citizens feel heard rather than threatened.