Popular Nigerian comedian and activist, Adebowale Adedayo, better known as Mr Macaroni, has taken a bold stand against the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
The move was made over alleged intimidation of a corps member who dared to speak out about the economic hardship in the country.
The corps member, identified as Ushie Rita Uguamaye, also known as Raye, went viral after sharing an emotional video on TikTok. In the clip, she lamented the soaring cost of living under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, expressing frustration over the daily struggles faced by ordinary Nigerians.
However, what seemed like a moment of honest expression quickly turned into a nightmare for Raye. According to her, NYSC officials allegedly threatened her, demanding that she delete the video and warning her against making further comments critical of the government. She also raised concerns about her safety, as these officials reportedly had access to her personal details.
Mr Macaroni Speaks Up: ‘Corpers Are Not Slaves!’
Mr Macaroni, a vocal advocate for human rights and good governance, wasted no time in calling out the NYSC and defending Raye’s right to free speech. Taking to social media, he directly addressed NYSC officials, stating:
“You cannot threaten, intimidate, or victimize any corper for expressing their view on the performance of the president. They are citizens with rights! The president is in office to serve the people, and every Nigerian, corper or not, has the right to hold their leaders accountable!”
He went further to criticize the broader issue of oppression in Nigeria, lamenting how many citizens, despite suffering, still defend their oppressors.
“Even when it gets too tight, they will use their last dying breath to defend their enslavers,” he remarked.
A Growing Outcry for Free Speech
Mr Macaroni’s intervention has ignited a wave of discussions online, with many Nigerians condemning any attempts to silence young voices. The controversy also brings to light the ongoing debate about the rights of citizens—especially youth corps members—to openly criticize government policies without fear of retribution.
As conversations around the incident continue to gain traction, the big question remains: Will the NYSC respond to these allegations, or will this be another case of silencing dissent in a democracy?
