The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has revealed why it withheld the discharge certificate of Rita Uguamaye, a corps member who gained public attention after criticising President Bola Tinubu over hardship.
The Service said the action was not taken in retaliation for her criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration as widely reported.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the NYSC said it withheld her discharge certificate after extending her service year by two months as a disciplinary action against her for missing April clearance.
NYSC said in the statement: “The NYSC Management wishes to clarify misleading information circulating on social media regarding Corps Member Ushie Rita Uguamaye, State Code number LA/24B/8325. Contrary to false claims that she was denied a Certificate of National Service (CNS) due to critical remarks about the government, this assertion is entirely unfounded and false in its entirety. Rita is among the 131 Corps Members whose Certificates of National Service (CNS), were withheld for valid disciplinary reasons.
“Specifically, Rita’s service year has been extended by two months for failing to attend the April 2025 biometrics clearance, a decision that aligns with the NYSC Bye-Laws. It is important to note that this extension is a standard procedure and not unique to her case, and the principle of equal treatment was only applied in this case.
“Rita NYSC Management thus urges the public to approach this matter with understanding, as extending service for non-compliance is a longstanding tradition within the NYSC and should not be politicized.
“The NYSC Scheme remains committed to discharging its mandate, in line with the dictates of the constitution. Nigeria is Ours; Nigeria We Serve.”
