The recent actions of the NYSC Lagos Secretariat in allegedly threatening a female corps member for expressing her frustration over the rising cost of living are deeply disturbing. This young woman, overwhelmed by inflation, rent hikes, and the daily struggle to survive, was reduced to tears.
Instead of offering support, the NYSC, an institution responsible for the welfare of corps members, chose to intimidate her into silence. Her only “offense” was calling the President terrible at his job. This is a democracy, not a dictatorship. The President is not above criticism, and no government institution has the right to bully a citizen for expressing their views.
A corps member crying out due to economic hardship should receive reassurance, not threats. Depression is real, and dismissing her distress while trying to suppress her voice is both heartless and undemocratic. NYSC must call its Lagos Secretariat to order and issue a formal apology to this corps member.
It must also reaffirm its commitment to the well-being of those serving Nigeria, rather than acting as a tool of oppression. The right to free speech is nonnegotiable, and any attempt to stifle it is a disgrace to the values Nigeria claims to uphold.
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