Ushie Uguamaye: Funmi Falana’s group vows to sue NYSC over alleged intimidation of Female Corps Member

Renowned human rights lawyer, Funmi Falana, SAN, has strongly condemned the alleged harassment and intimidation of a serving corps member, Ushie Uguamaye, by National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) officials in Lagos State.

Falana, who is the founder and Chairperson of the Women Empowerment and Legal Aid (WELA), condemned the actions of the NYSC in a statement obtained by ThisDay Nigeria, stating that Uguamaye’s constitutional rights, particularly her freedom of expression, had been violated.

She continued by saying that freedom of speech is a fundamental right protected by the Nigerian Constitution, and no citizen should face threats or attacks for expressing their opinions on matters of public interest.

The senior lawyer warned that WELA would take legal action against the NYSC and the Local Government Inspector (LGI) if the alleged intimidation continued.

She further stated that her organization was prepared to file a fundamental human rights lawsuit on behalf of Uguamaye to ensure her rights were upheld.

In her statement, Falana urged the NYSC leadership to immediately halt all forms of intimidation against corps members and uphold their right to free expression.

“Freedom of speech is a fundamental right enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution, and no citizen should be subjected to threats or reprisals for expressing their opinion on matters of public concern,” Falana asserted.

“Women Empowerment and Legal Aid (WELA) will not hesitate to take legal action against the Local Government Inspector (LGI) and the NYSC should this harassment persist.”

The NYSC must respect the rights of corps members and create an environment where they can freely express their views without fear of persecution, she said.