Amidst Raye’s clash with the Nigerian government, lawyer Stan Alieke, known for previously representing Speed Darlington, has weighed in on the situation.
Taking to Instagram, Alieke explained that as an NYSC member, Raye is technically an employee of the government and, like in many organizations, is restricted from publicly criticizing her employer. He noted that such actions could lead to disciplinary measures, just as employees in private companies can face queries or termination for speaking against their organization.
“A corp member is an employee of the government; you earn stipends from the government, so as per employment policy, you are restricted from saying some things against your employer, which is the government,” he wrote.
“This is not just peculiar to the government; in some organizations, you are restricted from criticizing or making a public appearance against the organization. If not, you will be queried or fired. The legality or otherwise of this will be a topic for another discussion, but rules are rules, and once you are signed up, you are to comply.”
Alieke went on to advise Raye to be cautious and not be misled by social media support, warning that public backing could lead to adverse consequences.
“My candid advice to the NYSC girl is that she should know this fact and not let herself be misled by social media support. They can only use you for clout and support you to your doom, then abandon you,” he cautioned.
“If NYSC kicks you out, your options of getting some jobs in Nigeria are already limited, as some organizations won’t employ you without an NYSC certificate. For further clarification, she should read her NYSC handbook.”
Raye, a serving NYSC member, recently sparked controversy after posting a video criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration over the rising cost of living. The video led to threats of disciplinary action from NYSC officials, sparking a wider debate on free speech and the restrictions imposed on corps members.
While some argue that NYSC members, like other government-affiliated employees, must adhere to institutional regulations, human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong countered that corps members are not civil servants and should not be silenced. He emphasized that criticizing the government does not violate the NYSC Act or Bye-Laws.
The situation has ignited discussions on the balance between organizational rules and freedom of expression, with many questioning whether NYSC policies should evolve to align with constitutional rights.
