A member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has issued a formal apology after referring to Lagos as a “smelling state” in a widely circulated video.
The corps member, whose identity has not been disclosed, faced significant backlash following the video’s release, prompting a swift retraction of the statement.
In a public address, the individual expressed regret for the remark, acknowledging that it was inappropriate and offensive to residents of Lagos.
“I sincerely apologise for my words. It was never my intention to disrespect Lagos or its people,” the corps member stated.
The incident has sparked discussions about the responsibilities of NYSC members in maintaining professionalism and cultural sensitivity during their service year.
A Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Ushie Uguamaye, also known as Raye, has issued a formal apology following public backlash over her recent remarks criticizing the government and making derogatory comments about Lagos.
In a statement shared via Instagram on Monday, Raye acknowledged that her comments may have been offensive to Lagos residents and expressed regret for her choice of words.
She clarified that her intention was not to disparage the city or its inhabitants but to provide an honest perspective as a visitor.
Additionally, she explained that her remarks were part of a broader initiative— a 30-day rant challenge—designed to highlight pressing societal issues in Nigeria.
Raye further clarified that her primary objective was to amplify awareness and foster discussions regarding Nigeria’s deteriorating economic conditions.
In her statement, she expressed remorse, stating: “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 elaborated on her perspective as a visitor, noting that she observed a discernible difference in the atmosphere and air quality in Lagos. She acknowledged that her phrasing may have elicited strong emotional reactions, adding: “If the way that I put it triggered your emotions and the love for your birth state, I am sorry. I didn’t mean to talk down on your birth state.”#newsafro_
