Like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi has thrown his support behind Ushie Rita Uguamaye, also known as Raye, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member who recently came under fire for criticizing the current administration, ThisDay Nigeria reports.

In a statement shared on his official X account, Obi condemned the alleged threats Raye has faced from NYSC officials, stating that it reflects a worrying trend where “voices of reason and truth are met with intimidation rather than dialogue and engagement.”

Obi noted that such repression is not new, as he himself has faced threats and harassment for expressing views aimed at offering constructive solutions to government policies.

“I now face daily intimidation, harassment, and name-calling simply for expressing solution-based views on government policies,” he stated.

The former Anambra governor stated that silencing dissenting voices goes against democratic principles. “A government that silences its citizens is not democratic or one that is subject to accountability and good governance and is most often corrupt,” he remarked.

Obi advised the current administration to embrace criticism as a vital component of democracy, calling on Nigerians not to be intimidated into silence.

“Do not let fear stifle your voice. Stand firm, support one another, and continue to advocate for the Nigeria we all envision—a nation where freedom of speech is sacrosanct, and leadership is accountable to the people, especially in critical areas such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation,” he said.

Full statement reads:

The National Youth Corps member, Ushie Rita Uguamaye, also known as Raye, recently had an experience that highlights a troubling trend in our nation—one where voices of reason and truth are met with intimidation rather than dialogue and engagement.

Reports indicate that she has faced threats from NYSC officials simply for expressing her concerns about the current administration.

This pattern is not isolated. I, too, have been subjected to threats for daring to offer constructive suggestions and comments.

I now face daily intimidation, harassment, and name-calling simply for expressing solution-based views on government policies.

Such actions are antithetical to the principles of democracy. A government that silences its citizens is not democratic or one that is subject to accountability and good governance and is most often corrupt.

I urge the current administration to reflect deeply on its approach to dissent and recognize that constructive criticism is a cornerstone of democratic progress.

To all patriotic Nigerians: Our nation’s future and development depend on our collective courage to speak out against misgovernance, injustice, and intimidation.

Do not let fear stifle your voice. Stand firm, support one another, and continue to advocate for Nigeria we all envision—a nation where freedom of speech is sacrosanct, and leadership is accountable to the people, especially in critical areas such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.

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.

A New Nigeria is POssible! -PO
https://thisdaynigeria.news/2025/03/16/like-atiku-peter-obi-backs-corps-member-criticized-for-speaking-against-tinubus-govt/
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What do you all think about this?
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👍
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Nice 👍👍
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Nice

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Keep it up
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Omo