Written by SpringNewsNG Media Limited
March 18, 2025

A Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Ushie Uguamaye, http://Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Ushie Uguamaye,popularly known as Raye, has issued a public apology after facing backlash for her viral video in which she described Lagos as a “smelling state.”

Taking to Instagram on Monday, Raye acknowledged that her choice of words may have offended Lagos residents and expressed regret. She clarified that her intention was not to insult Lagosians but to share her honest observations 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 explained that her remarks were part of a 30-day rant challenge aimed at drawing attention to Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions. According to her, she planned to post at least 20 videos addressing societal issues, hoping to spark a conversation by the 20th day. However, her first video gained traction immediately, resonating with many Nigerians who shared her frustrations.

Raye also spoke about the financial struggles of young Nigerians, lamenting that despite working over 45 hours a week, she and many others still find it difficult to afford basic leisure activities.

“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 said.

Her viral video, which surfaced on TikTok last Saturday, criticized Nigeria’s economic hardship and inflation, calling out President Bola Tinubu for what she described as failed leadership. While some Nigerians agreed with her sentiments, others condemned her for her remarks about Lagos.

Despite the controversy, Raye encouraged Nigerians to remain focused on demanding better living conditions instead of getting distracted by fleeting debates.

“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.

Her apology has since sparked further conversations online, with some Nigerians accepting it while others believe her original remarks reflected the harsh realities of urban living in Lagos.