A Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Ushie Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, has issued an apology following the backlash from her viral video where she criticized Lagos, referring to it as a “smelling state.”
Taking to Instagram on Monday, Raye expressed regret over her choice of words, acknowledging that her remarks may have offended Lagos residents. She clarified that her intention was not to insult those who call Lagos home but to share her personal experience as a visitor.
Raye explained that her statement was part of a larger initiative—a 30-day rant challenge aimed at highlighting pressing societal issues in Nigeria. Her goal, she noted, was to spark meaningful conversations about the country’s economic struggles and governance.
“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. “As a visitor here, I could tell there was a difference in the atmosphere and air quality. If the way I expressed it triggered emotions or pride for your home state, I sincerely apologize. I never intended to demean Lagos.”
She further revealed that her plan was to post at least 20 videos addressing societal concerns, believing that by the 20th day, her message would begin to gain traction. However, the first video resonated with many Nigerians almost instantly, amplifying the discussion far beyond her expectations.
Raye also shed light on the financial challenges facing young Nigerians. She lamented that despite working over 45 hours a week, she and many others still struggle to afford simple leisure activities, highlighting the harsh economic realities faced by many.
“When I started the 30-day rant challenge, my goal was simply to be heard. I thought that by Day 20, people would join me in speaking to the government. But to my surprise, I didn’t even have to wait for Day 2 because many Nigerians already felt the same way,” she explained.
“I want better for myself, and I hope you do too. The complaints I made are valid, regardless of any assumptions about my personal lifestyle. I work more than 45 hours a week, and I should be able to afford hanging out with friends on weekends. But I can’t. And honestly, how many of us can? We spend all week working and still can’t afford to enjoy our weekends.”
She encouraged Nigerians to remain focused on demanding better living conditions rather than getting distracted by online debates.
“I urge all of us to keep asking for what we deserve. Distractions will come, as they always do, but if we stay committed to demanding better, we will eventually see change,” she concluded.
Raye has been trending on Nigerian social media platforms since Saturday, following her TikTok video criticizing the country’s economic crisis and the high cost of living. In the video, she expressed frustration with the inflation rate and accused President Bola Tinubu of failing to address the economic struggles of Nigerians.
Her comments on Lagos, particularly her reference to it as a “smelling state,” sparked mixed reactions online. While some supported her observations, others criticized her choice of words, leading to widespread debate on social media.
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