NYSC member, Raye, apologizes for calling Lagos smelly in viral video

Ushie Rita Uguamaye, a Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member known online as Raye, has publicly apologized after her viral criticism of Lagos State and the government sparked mixed reactions.

Taking to Instagram on Monday, Raye acknowledged that her comments might have offended Lagos residents and expressed regret over her choice of words.

Raye refrained from addressing her comments on President Bola Tinubu. In the viral video, she had called President Tinubu a ‘Terrible President’.

In her apology, she explained that her remarks were part of a 30-day rant challenge aimed at highlighting pressing issues in Nigeria.

“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,” Raye wrote.

She clarified that her intention was not to insult Lagosians but to share her honest observations as a visitor to the state.

Raye further shared that her goal with the 30-day challenge was to amplify conversations about Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions.

According to her, she planned to post 20 videos addressing societal concerns, hoping to gain attention by the 20th day.

However, the first video quickly went viral, resonating with many Nigerians who shared similar frustrations.

“My target was to make at least 20 videos complaining until I was heard. Lucky for me, I didn’t even have to get to DAY 2 because a lot of us were actually angry, and Day 1 of the challenge was enough for people to join me,” she added.

Addressing the backlash, Raye highlighted the financial struggles of many young Nigerians, emphasizing that despite working over 45 hours a week, affording simple leisure activities remains a challenge.

“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 to hang out with our friends? You spend all week working and can’t even feel alive during the weekends,” she lamented.

Raye encouraged Nigerians to continue advocating for better living conditions and not to be distracted by temporary controversies.

“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 concluded.

Raye’s video, where she expressed her frustration over the rising cost of living and criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration, has sparked debates online.

While some supported her stance, others condemned her for her controversial description of Lagos.