According to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Ushie Rita Uguamaye’s (State Code: LA/24B/8325) Certificate of National Service (CNS) was witheld because she did not show up for the biometrics clearance in April 2025, not because she had criticized the current administration.
Rita is one of 131 corps members whose certificates were revoked for disciplinary reasons in accordance with the NYSC Bye-Laws, according to a statement signed on Sunday in Abuja by Caroline Embu, the scheme’s acting director of information and public relations.
Her service has been extended by two months, the NYSC also revealed.
Some saw Rita’s social media video, in which she bemoaned economic hardship and urged the Federal Government to find solutions, as a violation of the NYSC rule that forbids corps members from criticizing the government in public.
The scheme made it clear, though, that the sanction was only related to her failure to receive clearance. According to the NYSC statement,
“The NYSC Management wishes to clarify misleading information circulating on social media regarding Corps Member Ushie Rita Uguamaye, State Code number LA/24B/8325. Contrary to false claims that she was denied a Certificate of National Service (CNS) due to critical remarks about the government, this assertion is entirely unfounded and false in its entirety.
“Rita is among the 131 Corps Members whose Certificates of National Service (CNS), were withheld for valid disciplinary reasons. Specifically, Rita’s service year has been extended by two months for failing to attend the April 2025 biometrics clearance, a decision that aligns with the NYSC Bye-Laws.
“It is important to note that this extension is a standard procedure and not unique to her case, and the principle of equal treatment was only applied in this case.
“The NYSC Management thus urges the public to approach this matter with understanding, as extending service for non-compliance is a longstanding tradition within the NYSC and should not be politicised.
“The NYSC Scheme remains committed to discharging its mandate, in line with the dictates of the constitution.”
