NYSC MEMBER RAYE APOLOGIZES AFTER BACKLASH OVER VIRAL COMMENT
A National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member serving in Lagos, Ushie Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, has issued a public apology following backlash over a viral video in which she referred to Lagos as a “smelling state.”
In a statement shared on her Instagram page on Monday, Raye acknowledged that her remarks may have offended Lagos residents and expressed regret over her choice of words. She clarified that her intention was never to insult those born and raised in the state but to share her perspective as a visitor.
Explaining the context of her comment, Raye revealed that it was part of a 30-day rant challenge she initiated to highlight pressing issues in Nigeria. Her goal was to spark conversations and encourage citizens to speak up about the country’s worsening economic situation. While she initially planned to post at least 20 videos addressing various concerns, her first video quickly gained widespread attention, resonating with many Nigerians who shared her frustrations.
Expressing remorse, she wrote:
“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.
But as a visitor here, I noticed a difference in the atmosphere and air quality. If my words triggered emotions or seemed like an attack on your home state, that was not my intention.”
She further explained her motivation:
“When I started the 30-day rant challenge, my aim was to be heard. I believed that by Day 20, people would start paying attention and join me in demanding accountability from the government. But, to my surprise, I didn’t even need to get to Day 2—because so many Nigerians are equally frustrated.”
Raye also addressed criticisms regarding her personal financial situation, stating:
“I work 45+ hours a week, yet I can’t afford to hang out with my friends every weekend. But how many of us can? We work all week and still struggle to enjoy life. The complaints I made are valid, no matter how you perceive my lifestyle.”
Encouraging Nigerians to demand better governance, she added:
“I know distractions will come, but if we stay committed to asking for better, we will get better.”
Since Saturday, Raye has been trending on Nigerian social media platforms after her video went viral. In the clip, she condemned the economic hardship and inflation in Nigeria, arguing that hard work no longer guarantees financial stability. She also criticized President Bola Tinubu, calling him a “terrible leader” and questioning what steps the government was taking to alleviate citizens’ suffering.
Her remarks about Lagos’ living conditions, including the controversial “smelling state” comment, further fueled the debate. Following the video’s widespread attention, Raye alleged that she received threats, including pressure from NYSC officials to take down the post. Taking to Instagram, she expressed disappointment over what she described as attempts to silence her, insisting she had only spoken the truth about Nigeria’s current reality.
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