NYSC Explains Why It Withheld Certificate from Viral Corps Member Ushie Rita

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has addressed widespread speculation surrounding the decision to withhold the Certificate of National Service (CNS) from corps member Ushie Rita Uguamaye, popularly known as “Raye,” clarifying that the move was not politically motivated.

In a statement released on its official platform, the NYSC dismissed claims that Rita was punished for her critical remarks about the government, describing such allegations as “entirely unfounded and false in their entirety”.

According to the NYSC, Rita is one of 131 corps members whose certificates were withheld due to disciplinary infractions. Specifically, her service year was extended by two months for failing to attend the mandatory biometric clearance exercise in April 2025 – a violation of the NYSC bye-laws.

“This extension is a standard procedure and not unique to her case. The principle of equal treatment was applied as it is in all similar situations,” the statement read.

The NYSC urged the public to assess the situation objectively and avoid politicising routine administrative decisions. The scheme emphasized that service extensions for non-compliance are a longstanding tradition within its operations.

“The NYSC remains committed to discharging its mandate in line with the dictates of the constitution,” it added, reaffirming its slogan: “Nigeria is ours; Nigeria we serve.”

While Rita had previously gone viral for her outspoken criticism of Lagos and the government’s economic policies, the NYSC insists that her certificate delay is purely procedural and not retaliatory.

GossipXpress however did their research to authenticate the claims.

The following are NYSC Bye-Laws (Revised 2011), which outline the rules and disciplinary procedures for corps members throughout their service year:

Orientation Camp Rules

• Mandatory Participation: Corps members must attend all official activities – lectures, drills, and assignments.
• Punctuality: Late arrival to any activity may lead to disciplinary action, including decamping.
• Permission for Absence: Leaving camp without written consent from the State Coordinator is prohibited. Absence due to illness must be certified by a camp medical officer.
• Prohibited Items and Behavior:
  • No gambling
  • No possession of firearms or ammunition
  • No political campaigning or protests within camp

Primary Assignment Conduct

• Attendance: Members must report regularly to their Place of Primary Assignment (PPA).
• Respect for Authority: Assaulting NYSC officials or PPA supervisors can result in service extension of at least 21 days without pay.
• Reporting Misconduct: Any grievances must be channeled through the employer to the State Coordinator using NYSC Forms 2A, 2B, and 2C.

General Infractions and Penalties

• Missed Biometric Clearance: Failure to attend biometric verification may lead to service extension, as seen in Ushie Rita’s case.
• Lost ID Card: Attracts a fine of ₦500.
• Violation of Pledges: Refusal to sign the NYSC and National Pledge during swearing-in can result in decamping.

Passing Out and Certificate Eligibility

• Corps members must complete all clearance procedures and fulfill service obligations to receive their Certificate of National Service (CNS).
• Infractions during any phase of service may delay or withhold issuance of the certificate.

You can explore the full document on the official NYSC Bye-Laws page.