Presidency Reacts to Atiku Abubakar’s Support for NYSC Corps Member Criticizing President Tinubu

The Presidency has responded after former Vice President Atiku Abubakar expressed his support for Ushie Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member who criticized the administration of President Bola Tinubu. Atiku’s endorsement of Raye has stirred controversy, with political figures weighing in on the matter.

In a statement, Atiku Abubakar commended Raye for her outspoken criticism of the government, calling her a “shining emblem of Nigerian youth.” He further praised her “boldness and wisdom,” highlighting her ability to “speak truth to power” despite opposition. “I deeply admire her boldness and wisdom—her fearless resolve to speak truth to power, undeterred by the weight of opposition,” Atiku said.

The former presidential candidate’s support for the NYSC member has drawn mixed reactions, with many questioning the appropriateness of a political leader endorsing the actions of a corps member who publicly criticized the sitting government. Atiku’s statement was seen by some as an attempt to gain political mileage by aligning with a young person critical of the current administration.

In response to Atiku’s comments, the Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, strongly criticized the endorsement. Ajayi took to his Facebook page to condemn Atiku’s stance, calling it “poor politics.” He argued that a former Vice President, especially one with aspirations of returning to power in the future, should not publicly support what he described as “bad behaviour” and “indiscipline.”

Ajayi elaborated, stating that Raye’s actions violated the strict code of conduct set for corps members. “This is not a matter of free speech and right of expression. NYSC is a regimented service with a strict code of behaviour,” he wrote. Ajayi emphasized that while Nigerians have the right to express themselves, those in uniform, including members of the armed forces and civil servants, are bound by rules that prohibit them from publicly criticizing the government.

Ajayi’s comments underscore the importance of adhering to established protocols within Nigeria’s national institutions. “Anyone that wants to be a deviant should be ready to face the consequences,” he added, suggesting that Raye’s actions should not be celebrated by political figures, regardless of the individual’s personal or political beliefs.