Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has declared his support for Ushie Uguamaye, a National Youth Service Corps member in Lagos, who claimed she received threats after posting a viral video criticising President Bola Tinubu’s government.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, Atiku praised Uguamaye, also known as Raye, for her courage and described her as a symbol of a new generation of politically active women.
“Raye embodies the spirit of a new generation of women who champion the ideals of 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 the weight of opposition,” Atiku wrote.
Atiku compared Raye to historic female activists such as Gambo Sawaba, Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti, and Margaret Ekpo, who played key roles in Nigeria’s political history.
“Rather than being met with hostility, Raye deserves encouragement and support. She is a shining emblem of the 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 became widely known after posting a video on TikTok (@talktoraye) on Saturday, where she expressed frustration over Nigeria’s rising inflation and economic hardship.
She criticised Tinubu’s leadership, calling him a “terrible leader”, and questioned the government’s efforts to ease citizens’ struggles.
After the video went viral, Raye alleged that she began receiving threats, reportedly from NYSC officials, who pressured her to take it down.
