NYSC has denied reports that it extended the service year of Lagos corps member Rita Uguamaye, aka Raye, because she criticised President Tinubu. Online chatter, including claims by activist Omoyele Sowore, alleged her year was extended punitively. The NYSC insists such decisions are only made at the time of passing out. Smoke Without Fire became the lens through which the public reacted, with outrage and confusion clouding the facts.
- Rita went viral months ago for criticising President Tinubu and Lagos’ living conditions.
- NYSC said any service extension happens at the point of passing out, not mid-service.
- Sowore vowed to protest unless NYSC allows her to complete service unpunished.
- NYSC called the extension claim false, citing institutional procedures and internal reviews.
Smoke Without Fire sometimes burns more than real flames. The swirl of misinformation, activism, and institutional silence often creates public heat before truth arrives. In digital Nigeria, perception can precede proof.
Source: Punch, Linda Ikeji’s Blog
