A National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member serving in Lagos, Ushie Uguamaye, also known as Raye, has apologized for her remarks about Lagos after facing backlash online.
Raye, who gained widespread attention last week for her outspoken criticism of the government and the country’s economic struggles, had referred to Lagos as a “smelling state” in a viral TikTok video. The statement sparked mixed reactions, with some agreeing with her while others found her comments offensive.
Taking to Instagram on Monday, she acknowledged that her choice of words may have hurt Lagos residents and expressed regret. She explained that her statement was not meant to insult those who call Lagos home but was simply an honest observation from her perspective as a visitor.
“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,” she wrote.
She further explained that her comment was part of a larger project called the “30-day rant challenge,” where she planned to speak on pressing issues affecting Nigerians. Her goal was to get people talking about the country’s economic situation and the struggles faced by many citizens.
Raye also spoke about the financial hardships young Nigerians experience. She noted that despite working over 45 hours a week, many, including herself, still find it difficult to afford simple leisure activities like hanging out with friends.
“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? How many can afford that in reality?” she questioned.
She urged Nigerians to keep demanding better living conditions instead of getting distracted by social media controversies.
“I encourage all of us to ask for what we believe we deserve. I know distractions will take us again, very soon. But if we stay committed to asking for better, we will get better,” she added.
Raye has been trending on Nigerian social media since Saturday after her video criticizing inflation and the rising cost of living went viral. She also took aim at President Bola Tinubu, calling him a “terrible leader” and questioning the government’s efforts in addressing the country’s struggles.
