In May 2019, Chief Inspector Raphael A. Ushie of the Nigeria Immigration Service passed away following the destruction of his palm plantation in Ukambi, Cross River State. The land was cleared to pave the way for the Obudu International Airport, a project that led to the displacement of many local farmers.
Approaching retirement, Ushie had invested his life savings in the plantation, hoping it would sustain him and his family. When he heard that farmlands in neighboring communities had been demolished and that Ukambi was next, he rushed home to confront the situation.
Still dressed in his official uniform, he stood in front of the bulldozers in an attempt to stop the demolition. Other villagers soon joined him in protest. However, during the standoff, Ushie collapsed. He was rushed to a hospital in Obudu, but due to the severity of his condition, he was later transferred to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, where he passed away.
Despite the family’s tragic loss, no compensation was offered for the destroyed farm or the expenses incurred. Ushie’s widow was left to raise their children alone, struggling to put them through school. To this day, the family has received no restitution.
Fast forward to March 2025, Ushie’s 24-year-old daughter, Rita Uguamaye, is serving in Lagos State as part of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
Recently, she went viral for a TikTok video criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration, condemning the rising cost of living. In the emotional post, Rita described Tinubu as a “terrible president” and lamented how corps members struggle to survive on their stipend, which she argued is insufficient for basic needs.
Her remarks drew the attention of the NYSC, which summoned her for questioning, citing a violation of corps members’ conduct rules that prohibit openly criticizing authorities.
The NYSC’s response to Rita’s video has sparked a nationwide debate on free speech and the right of citizens to express their grievances.
Prominent figures, including Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, have condemned the government’s stance, arguing that suppressing dissent undermines Nigeria’s democratic values.
Rita’s frustration echoes the wider discontent among many Nigerians struggling with economic challenges, feeling neglected by the system. Her family’s ordeal—from the loss of their father due to forced land acquisition to her current struggles—illustrates the ongoing tension between citizens and authorities over land rights, freedom of expression, and governance.
