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A member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Ushie Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, has apologised for her recent remarks describing Lagos as a “smelling state.”
Raye sparked controversy after posting a video on TikTok, where she criticised President Bola Tinubu over the economic situation and expressed her displeasure with the environmental conditions in Lagos. The video quickly went viral, attracting mixed reactions, including responses from NYSC officials.
However, in a statement shared on Instagram on Monday, Raye expressed regret, acknowledging that her words may have offended Lagos residents.
“I Didn’t Mean to Insult Lagosians”
Raye clarified that her comments were based on personal observations as someone new to the city. She admitted that her choice of words might have been insensitive and apologised to those who felt disrespected.
“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.
“But as a visitor here, I could tell there was a difference in the atmosphere and quality of air. If the way I put it triggered your emotions and love for your birth state, I am sorry. I didn’t mean to talk down on your home.”
A Rant Challenge Gone Viral
Raye explained that her remarks were part of a planned 30-day “rant challenge” aimed at highlighting Nigeria’s economic and social struggles. Her goal was to spark conversations about issues affecting young Nigerians, including financial hardship and the rising cost of living.
She revealed that she initially planned to post 20 videos before gaining traction. However, her very first video gained massive attention, striking a chord with many Nigerians facing similar frustrations.
“When I started the 30-day rant challenge, I said I just wanted to be heard. I believed that if I got to Day 20, people would begin to listen and join me in speaking to the government,” she explained.
“Lucky for me, I didn’t even have to get to Day 2 because many of us are actually angry, and Day 1 of the challenge was enough for people to join me.”
The Cost of Living Struggles
In her post, Raye also spoke about the financial difficulties many young Nigerians face. She noted that despite working over 45 hours a week, she and many others still struggle to afford simple leisure activities.
“I work 45+ hours a week and should be able to afford hanging out with my friends every weekend. But I can’t. How many of us can actually afford that in reality? You spend all week working and can’t even feel alive during the weekends.”
A Call for Better Living Conditions
Raye urged Nigerians to focus on demanding better governance rather than getting distracted by temporary 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.
