Abuja, Nigeria – Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has condemned the alleged intimidation and harassment of Ushie Rita Uguamaye, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, over her political views.
Obi, in a statement shared on social media, revealed that Uguamaye, also known as Raye, faced threats from NYSC officials for expressing concerns about the current administration. He described the incident as part of a growing trend where voices of reason are suppressed instead of engaged in constructive dialogue.
“Reports indicate that she has faced threats from NYSC officials simply for expressing her concerns about the current administration,” Obi said.
The former Anambra State governor noted that this is not an isolated case, adding that he, too, has been a target of threats for offering constructive criticism.
“I now face daily intimidation, harassment, and name-calling simply for expressing solution-based views on government policies,” he stated.
Obi warned that such actions go against the principles of democracy, arguing that a government that silences its citizens is neither democratic nor accountable.
“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,” he added.
He called on the government to embrace dissent and recognize constructive criticism as a fundamental pillar of democratic progress.
Obi also urged Nigerians to stand firm and speak out against misgovernance, injustice, and intimidation.
“Do not let fear stifle your voice. Stand firm, support one another, and continue to advocate for the Nigeria we all envision—one where freedom of speech is sacrosanct, and leadership is accountable to the people,” he emphasized.
Concluding his message, Obi reiterated his belief in a better Nigeria, stating, “A New Nigeria is POssible!”
