…Condemns her unlawful harassment and intimidation
Pro-democracy Advocacy Group on the aegis of Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), has declared that the young female NYSC Corps member who recently criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration economic policies which have brought about enormous hardship on Nigerians, was entitled to express herself.
It warned that silencing dissent will not resolve the challenges faced by average Nigerians; rather, it would deepen the divide between the government and the people.
HURIWA said every citizen has the right to express their opinions and concerns about governmental performance without fear of intimidation or retribution, stressing that the provisions of fundamental human rights including freedom of expression encapsulated in chapter 4 of the Nigerian constitution is higher and far more superior that the NYSC bylaws.
HURIWA in a statement by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, said the NYSC extant bylaw does not negate the constitutionally guaranteed freedoms of citizens including youth corps members.
The group noted that the young NYSC Corps member, Miss Uguamaye had a viral video shared on her TikTok account, talktoraye, on Saturday, expressed frustration over Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions, lamenting the high inflation and economic hardship.
Uguamaye also criticised President Tinubu, describing him as a “terrible president” while questioning the government’s efforts to alleviate the hardship faced by the citizens.
The rights group said that after the video had gone viral, Uguamaye posted another video on her TikTok to alert the public that she was being allegedly threatened by the NYSC authorities.
HURIWA therefore kicked against any attempt to harass, intimidate or threaten the Corps member, adding that the loyalty of Corps members should be to the federal Republic of Nigeria and not to any specific holder of the office of the President of Nigeria.
It also said that in accordance with Section 39(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, it is stipulated that “every person shall be entitled to freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference”.
HURIWA said; “This fundamental right is the cornerstone of our democracy, allowing citizens to hold their leaders accountable and advocate for positive change”.
HURIWA expressed concerns that the NYSC Corps member was facing threats from officials after expressing concerns about the economic hardships affecting Corps members and many Nigerians, stressing that such actions not only contradict the democratic principles upon which the nation is built but also create an atmosphere of fear that prevents open dialogue and constructive criticism.
According to HURIWA; “The rising costs of living, inflation, and issues surrounding government accountability are pressing matters that deserve attention. It is essential for our leaders to engage with citizens, listening to their grievances and taking meaningful steps to address them.
“We urge the NYSC leadership to reconsider any measures taken against this brave individual and to encourage a culture of free speech among all Corp members. It is crucial for our democracy that young voices, especially those of future leaders, are not stifled but rather nurtured and empowered to contribute to national discourse,” it said.
Accordingly, HURIWA called on the Nigerian government to reaffirm its commitment to protect the rights of citizens by allowing them to speak freely about their experiences and challenges, adding that the resilience of our democracy depends on the active participation of its citizens and their ability to address injustices openly.
“We stand in solidarity with this NYSC corper and all Nigerians who dare to speak truth to power,” HURIWA said.
