The corps member, whose identity remains undisclosed, had raised alarm over an alleged threat from the NYSC board after she criticised President Tinubu’s government in a viral social media post.

Amnesty International has strongly condemned the alleged threats and intimidation against a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member who posted a viral TikTok video criticising President Bola Tinubu over Nigeria’s worsening economic situation.

The corps member, whose identity remains undisclosed, had raised alarm over an alleged threat from the NYSC board after she criticised President Tinubu’s government in a viral social media post.

The young lady, who shared her grievances on TikTok via the handle @talktoraye, was seen in tears as she lamented the rising cost of goods in Nigeria.

Reacting to the alleged threat by the NYSC, Amnesty International said the response from authorities infringes on the female corps member’s right to free expression.

“It is perfectly within her right to express discontent peacefully,” Amnesty International stated.

The global human rights organisation added, “Instead of threatening her for her opinions on rampant inflation, the authorities should be prioritising addressing the country’s economic woes.”

The lady in the video described the Tinubu administration as “terrible” and accused the government of neglecting the economic hardship faced by citizens.

She made reference to the widespread economic difficulties faced by Nigerians, including rising inflation, fuel price hikes, and currency devaluation.

These economic challenges have plunged millions into extreme poverty, with little relief from government policies.

Amnesty International said, “Millions of people in Nigeria are facing extreme poverty. So far, the authorities have failed to put in place effective mitigation measures, leaving millions of people without the hope of getting out of the economic challenges and enjoying their human rights.”

This incident has sparked further concerns about shrinking civic space in Nigeria, where citizens and activists have increasingly faced harassment, detention, and legal action for criticising government policies.

Amnesty International called on Nigerian authorities to respect fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression, as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution and international law.

“The Nigerian authorities must stop responding with violence and threats to individuals and groups who express dissenting opinions — in utter disregard for the Nigerian constitution and international law,” the organisation emphasised.

The organisation added, “Holding and voicing dissenting views is not a crime.”

The controversy highlights the growing tensions between the Nigerian government and citizens expressing dissatisfaction with economic conditions and governance.

While officials have yet to comment on the specific allegations against the NYSC, rights groups continue to call for greater protection of free speech in the country.

Amnesty International strongly condemns threats and intimidation directed at a lady who posted TikTok video lamenting the current escalating economic hardship. The lady alleged that NYSC officials @officialnyscng threatened her for refusing to delete the video. pic.twitter.com/zvCq7KoUiz

— Amnesty International Nigeria (@AmnestyNigeria) March 16, 2025