A National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member serving in Lagos, Ushie Rita Uguamaye, has tendered a heartfelt apology after facing backlash over a viral video in which she described Lagos as a “smelling state.”
Taking to Instagram on Monday, Ushie acknowledged that her comments might have offended Lagos residents and expressed regret over her choice of words.
In her apology, she explained that her remarks were part of a 30-day rant challenge aimed at highlighting pressing issues in Nigeria.
“I want to first of all state that I am sorry to the people who were born and raised in Lagos State if you feel offended by what I said. I am sorry,” Raye wrote.
She clarified that her intention was not to insult Lagosians but to share her honest observations as a visitor to the state.
She further shared that her goal with the 30-day challenge was to amplify conversations about Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions.
According to her, she planned to post 20 videos addressing societal concerns, hoping to gain attention by the 20th day.
However, the first video quickly went viral, resonating with many Nigerians who shared similar frustrations.
“My target was to make at least 20 videos complaining until I was heard. Lucky for me, I didn’t even have to get to DAY 2 because a lot of us were actually angry, and Day 1 of the challenge was enough for people to join me,” she added.
While addressing the backlash, Ushie highlighted the financial struggles of many young Nigerians, stressing that despite working over 45 hours a week, affording simple leisure activities remains a challenge.
“I work 45+ hours a week, and I should be able to afford hanging out with my friends every weekend. However, I can’t. But how many of us can actually afford to hang out with our friends? You spend all week working and can’t even feel alive during the weekends,” she lamented.
Ushie encouraged Nigerians to continue advocating for better living conditions and not to be distracted by temporary controversies.
“I encourage all of us to ask for what we believe we deserve. If we stay committed to asking for better, we will get better,” she concluded.
Ushie’s video, where she expressed her frustration over the rising cost of living and criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration, has sparked debates online.
While some supported her stance, others condemned her for her controversial description of Lagos.