Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has thrown his weight behind Corper Raye, an embattled serving corps member allegedly denied her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate under controversial circumstances.
Sowore condemned the NYSC’s action, describing it as a “gross injustice” against the corps member, whose full name is Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye.
In a post on his official X account on Saturday, the Sahara Reporters publisher vowed to stand by Raye until justice is served.
“We had promised to fight for her justice, and that promise remains unbroken,” Sowore wrote.
He praised Raye’s activism, crediting her outspoken criticism of the government for prompting an increase in corps members’ allowances.
“It was Raye’s courage that pushed the authorities to raise the allowance for her colleagues. We will not abandon her. Her fight is our fight,” he added.
Raye’s troubles began in March when a video she posted online criticising the present administration went viral.
She alleged that NYSC officials later threatened her to delete the post.
Civil rights groups have accused the NYSC of trying to silence her, pointing to what they believe were retaliatory actions.
Following the viral clip, the NYSC Local Government Inspector in Eti-Osa summoned her to appear at the local office.
Sowore and her legal team accompanied her, but the official who issued the summons was reportedly absent.
The matter resurfaced on June 18, when Raye was again summoned, this time to face a disciplinary panel at the Iyana Ipaja NYSC orientation camp in Lagos.
After repeated delays, she was informed that her service year would be extended by two months — a move that ultimately prevented her from collecting her discharge certificate on schedule.
Sowore has vowed to keep pushing for a reversal of the NYSC’s decision, adding that Nigerians must stand united against systemic abuse of power.
As of press time, the NYSC has not issued an official response to the allegations.
The expanded account indicates that Sowore’s intervention includes legal and public advocacy measures. His legal team has reportedly filed a formal demand on behalf of Raye, requesting that the NYSC provide written reasons for the extension of her service year and the denial of her discharge certificate. The team is also seeking a prompt reinstatement of her right to obtain the certificate if no due process was followed.
Civil society organisations and student bodies have rallied in solidarity, organising peaceful vigils and online campaigns calling for transparency from the NYSC. Several rights groups have pledged to monitor any disciplinary proceedings to ensure they comply with statutory regulations and do not violate Raye’s constitutionally guaranteed freedoms of expression and association.
Eyewitness accounts from colleagues at the orientation camp describe prolonged administrative delays, and some corps members say they witnessed meetings where camp officials debated how to handle high-profile criticism from serving members. Observers say the handling of Raye’s case may set an important precedent for how dissent by young people in national service is treated going forward.
Sowore’s public statements have urged the NYSC hierarchy to release a clear timeline of the disciplinary process and to make any evidence against Raye available to her legal representatives. He has also called on oversight bodies and the Ministry responsible for youth affairs to step in and ensure impartiality.
Raye’s supporters have flagged concerns about potential backlogs in the issuance of discharge certificates for other corps members — arguing that arbitrary extensions harm the career prospects and livelihoods of young Nigerians who rely on timely certification to pursue employment and further education.
Legal analysts quoted by local outlets say the remedy may include obtaining an interlocutory order from a court to compel the NYSC to issue the certificate pending the determination of the substantive matter. Sowore’s team is reportedly prepared to pursue all lawful avenues, including litigation and appeals to administrative review panels, should the NYSC fail to act responsibly and transparently.
Meanwhile, some stakeholders have urged calm and due process, emphasising that allegations should be tested in appropriate forums. They stress that ensuring fairness for both the accused and the institution is essential to maintaining public trust in national service institutions.
As public interest in the case grows, commentators say it highlights broader questions about the balance between institutional discipline and free speech for young Nigerians serving in state-run programmes. The outcome of Raye’s case is likely to be closely watched by activists, legal practitioners and student communities across the country.
Sowore concluded his most recent post by reiterating his commitment: “We will pursue this matter in the courts and in the court of public opinion until fairness is restored.” Supporters have been asked to document any irregularities and to share credible information with Raye’s legal team to aid the ongoing challenge.
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