Raye Steps Back from Advocacy Amid Threats

Lagos-based corps member Ushie Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, has announced that she is withdrawing from her public advocacy against rising living costs in Nigeria. The young activist, who gained prominence for criticizing the Tinubu-led administration over economic hardship, cited threats and lack of collective support as reasons for her decision.  

In an Instagram post, Raye expressed frustration and disappointment over her inability to sustain the momentum of her campaign. “I truly wanted my voice to make a difference. I hoped that something good would come out of it. I envisioned price regulations being put in place. I envisioned MTN and Airtel being held accountable for the outrageous price hikes,” she wrote.

Her advocacy initially gained widespread attention when she spoke out against the rising cost of essential goods and services, including steep hikes by telecommunications companies. However, despite her efforts, she lamented that prices continued to soar. “I went out to buy drinks again today, and once again, yesterday’s price is not today’s price. I’m exhausted, and it feels like nothing will ever change,” she stated.

Raye also shared her distress over the lack of national unity, emphasizing the need for Nigerians to come together regardless of tribal or linguistic differences. “I look forward to the day when Nigerians will stand together as one—regardless of tribe or what language we speak. That will be the day we finally experience the change we deserve,” she wrote.

The corps member revealed that she had received advice to simply “manage” until she could leave the country. However, she questioned this mindset, asking, “But what if I want to stay here? What if I don’t want to leave?” Her words struck a chord with many who feel trapped by the economic situation.

Despite the support she received from some Nigerians, Raye admitted her disappointment in how easily distractions and disunity weaken collective action. “With all the support and love you’ve shown me, I hope you don’t feel disappointed, but seeing how easy it is to distract us and how disunited we are, I will be dropping this and going back to my normal life,” she wrote.