A former President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and African Union of Journalists (AUJ), Comrade Lanre Ogundipe, has cautioned the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) against taking action against Rita Ushie Uguamaye, a corps member in Lagos State.

Uguamaye recently shared a video online where she criticized President Bola Tinubu’s government over the country’s economic situation. Following this, reports emerged that NYSC officials had summoned her, possibly to make her take down the video and face disciplinary action.

In a statement released on Monday, Ogundipe strongly opposed any attempt to silence her. He emphasized that freedom of speech is a fundamental right, clearly protected under Section 39(1) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution.

This section guarantees everyone the right to express their opinions and share information without interference. He also highlighted that international human rights laws, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, protect freedom of expression.

Ogundipe urged Nigerian youths to stand by Uguamaye, praising her courage in speaking out. He noted that new voices like hers are needed in activism, as older activists have lost some of their impact.

He further called on NYSC officials to stop summoning her to their office and to respect her right to express her views.

According to Ogundipe, no government or institution should try to silence or intimidate young people for speaking up. He insisted that Uguamaye should be encouraged rather than punished for her boldness in addressing national issues.