Opinion
“Tinubu, Terrible President”: Did NYSC Lady Cross The Line?
By Benjamin Abioye
The incident involving Ushie Uguamaye, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member who publicly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration, has sparked a debate about the boundaries of free speech and the responsibilities of corps members under the NYSC code of conduct.
Uguamaye, serving in Lagos State, posted a TikTok video expressing dissatisfaction with the current economic situation and referred to President Tinubu as a “terrible president.” Following the video’s circulation, she alleged that NYSC officials threatened her, pressuring her to remove the content. This claim has drawn attention from various quarters, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and human rights organizations, who have expressed support for her right to free expression.
The NYSC has established guidelines to ensure that corps members maintain discipline and uphold the integrity of the program. Key provisions include:
Discipline and Conduct: Corps members are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that does not bring the NYSC or the nation into disrepute.
Political Neutrality: They are advised to refrain from engaging in political activities or making political statements that could be deemed partisan.
Use of Social Media: Corps members are cautioned against using social media platforms to disseminate content that could incite public disorder or tarnish the image of the NYSC.
The Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of expression; however, this right is not absolute and comes with certain limitations, especially concerning public servants and individuals in official capacities. For NYSC members, the challenge lies in balancing their right to free speech with their obligations under the NYSC code of conduct.
Support for Uguamaye: Advocates argue that as citizens, corps members should be able to voice their opinions on governance and national issues without fear of retribution. They contend that her criticism reflects broader public sentiments and should be viewed as constructive feedback.
Adherence to NYSC Guidelines: Others believe that by publicly criticizing the president, Uguamaye may have breached the NYSC’s guidelines on political neutrality and appropriate conduct. They argue that such actions could undermine the apolitical stance that the NYSC strives to maintain.
The incident underscores the delicate balance between individual rights and institutional regulations. While freedom of expression is a fundamental right, corps members are also bound by the NYSC’s code of conduct, which seeks to promote discipline and neutrality. This case highlights the need for clear guidelines on the extent to which corps members can engage in public discourse, ensuring that their rights are protected without compromising the integrity of the NYSC program.
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