The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a strong call to the Tinubu administration, demanding an immediate halt to the alleged intimidation, harassment, and threats against a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Ushie Uguamaye.
In a post on its official X handle, SERAP condemned the reported actions against Uguamaye, who is said to have criticized President Bola Tinubu over the worsening inflation and economic hardship in Nigeria.
“BREAKING: The Tinubu administration should direct the leadership of the NYSC to immediately end the intimidation, harassment, and threats against Youth Corper Ushie Uguamaye for reportedly criticizing the President over inflation and economic hardship,” the statement read.
SERAP emphasized that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to free expression, including the right to hold their government accountable without fear of reprisals.
“Everyone has a right to criticize their government without intimidation. Freedom of expression is a fundamental right. We’ll see in court if this threat is not immediately withdrawn,” the organization warned.
The human rights group further called on the NYSC board to stop treating dissent as a crime and to ensure that Uguamaye’s safety and security are guaranteed.
This development comes amid growing concerns over the shrinking space for free speech in Nigeria, as citizens, activists, and even public servants face increasing pressure for voicing dissent against government policies.
SERAP’s declaration signals a possible legal battle if the alleged threats persist, setting the stage for yet another confrontation over human rights and democratic freedoms in the country.