Ushie Uguamaye, commonly known as Raye, a Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps member who went viral last week for criticizing the government, has apologized for “talking down” on Lagos.
On Monday, Raye said on Instagram that her statements may have hurt Lagos citizens and expressed apologies for her language choice.
She explained that her purpose was not to offend individuals who call Lagos home, but to express her candid observations as a tourist.
She added that the inflammatory comment was part of a larger project, a 30-day rant challenge to highlight important concerns in Nigeria.
Her purpose, she explained, was to be heard and to spark discussions about the country’s deteriorating economic situation.
Ushie Uguamaye
She wrote, “First and foremost, I apologize to those who were born and bred in Lagos State if my words hurt you. I apologize.
“However, as a guest, I could sense there was a change in the mood and air quality here. If the way I said it stirred your feelings and love for your birth state, I apologize. I did not mean to disparage your natal state.”
She went on to say that her initial aim was to release 20 films addressing various societal issues, with the hope of sparking conversation by the 20th day.
However, the first video went viral almost instantly, connecting with many Nigerians who shared her frustrations.
Raye also highlighted the financial difficulties that young Nigerians face, pointing out that despite working more than 45 hours each week, she and many others still struggle to fund basic recreational activities.
“When I started the 30-day rant challenge, I stated that all I wanted was to be heard. I believed that if I made it to DAY-20, people would start to hear me and join me in speaking to the authorities.
“My goal was to create at least 20 videos complaining until I was heard.” Fortunately for me, I didn’t have to make it to Day 2 because many of us were outraged, and Day 1 of the challenge was enough to persuade people to join me.
“I want better for myself.” (I hope you do, too). The objections I raised are valid, regardless of what ‘lifestyle’ you believe I am living.
“I work 45+ hours a week and should be able to afford to spend weekends with my friends. But I can’t. But how many of us can really afford to spend out with our friends? How many people can afford that in reality? You work all week and don’t feel alive on the weekends.
She advised Nigerians to keep demanding better living circumstances rather than being distracted by minor disputes.
“I encourage everyone to ask for what they believe they deserve. I know distractions will get us again very soon. But if we continue to ask for better, we will get it,” she concluded.
Raye has been trending on Nigerian social media platforms since Saturday, when her TikTok video denouncing the country’s economic suffering and inflation went viral.
In the video, she expressed her dissatisfaction with the expense of living and accused President Bola Tinubu of being a “terrible leader,” criticizing the government’s efforts to address citizens’ concerns.
Her statements about Lagos, specifically dubbing it a “smelling state,” elicited varied reactions online, with some agreeing with her and others condemning her words.
