Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate Peter Obi have voiced their support for Ushie Ushie Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, after her viral video criticising the Federal Government’s policies.

Raye, a Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, recently gained widespread attention after condemning President Bola Tinubu’s administration over the rising cost of living in Nigeria. She alleged that certain NYSC officials had threatened her following her comments on the state of the economy.

However, Atiku and Obi have praised her courage, insisting that she should be supported rather than vilified.

“Raye embodies the spirit of a new generation of women who champion the ideals of popular participation and unwavering advocacy in the political sphere. I deeply admire her boldness and wisdom—her fearless resolve to speak truth to power, undeterred by the weight of opposition,” Atiku wrote on X.

“She follows in the footsteps of formidable trailblazers like Gambo Sawaba, Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti, Margaret Ekpo, and countless other women who have stood resolute in defence of the common good.

“Rather than being met with hostility, Raye deserves encouragement and support. She is a shining emblem of the Nigerian youth—a testament to the long-held promise that the leaders of tomorrow are already among us, ready to shape a better future.”

Obi also weighed in on the matter, stating that Raye’s experience “highlights a troubling trend in our nation—one where voices of reason and truth are met with intimidation rather than dialogue and engagement.”

The former Anambra State governor noted that the corps member’s ordeal is “not an isolated case.”

“I, too, have been subjected to threats for daring to offer constructive suggestions and comments. I now face daily intimidation, harassment, and name-calling simply for expressing solution-based views on government policies. Such actions are antithetical to the principles of democracy. A government that silences its citizens is neither democratic nor accountable to the people, and such a government is often corrupt,” Obi wrote on his X handle.

He urged President Tinubu’s administration to “reflect deeply on its approach to dissent and recognise that constructive criticism is a cornerstone of democratic progress.”

“To all patriotic Nigerians: Our nation’s future and development depend on our collective courage to speak out against misgovernance, injustice, and intimidation,” the 2023 LP presidential candidate said.

“Do not let fear stifle your voice. Stand firm, support one another, and continue to advocate for the Nigeria we all envision—a nation where freedom of speech is sacrosanct and leadership is accountable to the people, especially in critical areas such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.

“A just and prosperous Nigeria should be one where people like Raye are encouraged to speak out about the challenges they face, while those in government take urgent action to address these issues.”