A Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps, NYSC member Ushie Uguamaye, also known as Raye, who gained widespread attention last week for her outspoken criticism of the government, has issued an apology for her remarks about Lagos.
Taking to Instagram on Monday, Raye expressed regret over the language she used, acknowledging that her comments might have offended Lagos residents.
She clarified that her intention was never to insult the people of Lagos but rather to offer an honest observation as a visitor to the state.
In her apology, Raye explained that the controversial remark was part of a larger initiative — a 30-day rant challenge designed to draw attention to critical issues facing Nigeria.
The challenge, she said, aimed to foster dialogue about the country’s deteriorating economic conditions.
“I want to first of all state that I am sorry to the people who were born and raised in Lagos State if you feel offended by what I said. I am sorry,” she wrote. “But as a visitor here, I could tell there was a difference in the atmosphere and quality of air here. If the way that I put it triggered your emotions and the love for your birth state, I am sorry. I didn’t mean to talk down on your birth state.”
Raye elaborated that her original plan was to post 20 videos addressing various societal issues, with the hope that by the 20th day, the conversation would gain traction.
However, the first video of the challenge went viral, striking a chord with many Nigerians who shared her frustrations.
The NYSC member also discussed the financial struggles faced by young Nigerians, emphasizing that despite working over 45 hours a week, she and many others are unable to afford basic leisure activities.
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“When I started the 30-day rant challenge, I said I just wanted to be heard. I believed that by Day 20, people would begin to hear me and join me in speaking to the government,” Raye said. “But I didn’t even have to get to Day 2, because Day 1 was enough to ignite a wider conversation.”
Raye further lamented the challenges faced by Nigerians, noting that despite long work hours, many cannot enjoy basic freedoms like socializing with friends.
“I work 45+ hours a week and I should be able to afford hanging out with my friends every weekend. However, I can’t. But how many of us can actually afford that in reality?” she questioned.
She concluded by urging Nigerians to stay focused on demanding better living conditions, even amid distractions.
“I encourage all of us to ask for what we believe we deserve. If we stay committed to asking for better, we will get better,” she said.
Since Saturday, Raye has been a trending topic on Nigerian social media after a TikTok video of hers criticizing the country’s economic hardships and inflation went viral.
In the video, she expressed dissatisfaction with the rising cost of living and called out President Bola Tinubu, accusing him of poor leadership.
Her comments on Lagos, particularly calling it a “smelling state,” sparked mixed reactions online, with some agreeing with her, while others criticized her choice of words.
Crediblenewsng.com
