Tinubu’s aide, Temitope Ajayi, faced backlash after suggesting a corps member, Ushie Uguamaye, should face capital punishment for criticizing the president on TikTok. Following public outrage, he backtracked, claiming he meant NYSC’s highest penalty, not execution. The controversy ignited debates on free speech and government overreach.
A media aide to President Bola Tinubu, Temitope Ajayi, sparked outrage after suggesting that Ushie Uguamaye, a corps member, should face capital punishment for criticizing the president on TikTok. Uguamaye’s viral video highlighted poor conditions during her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) assignment, drawing reactions from political figures like Atiku Abubakar, Omoyele Sowore, and Peter Obi.
Ajayi initially defended his stance, arguing that the corps member had violated her NYSC oath by speaking against the country and its leader. However, as backlash mounted, he attempted to clarify his remarks, insisting he had meant the "highest punishment" under NYSC rules, not an actual death sentence.
His comments reignited debates on freedom of speech in Nigeria, with critics accusing the government of intolerance toward dissent. While some defended the need for discipline within NYSC, others viewed Ajayi’s statement as an overreach. The controversy highlights growing tensions between the government and young Nigerians using social media to voice their frustrations.
