Lagos corps members respond to NYSC warning against nationwide protests

Corps members serving in Lagos State have responded to an official warning issued by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Lagos State Coordinator, Baderinwa Yetunde, cautioning them against participating in nationwide protests.

The warning, delivered on Sunday, precedes the #EndHardshipProtest slated to begin on August 1.

The statement emphasized that participating in nationwide protests, whether physically or online, is against NYSC policy and could result in serious disciplinary actions.

“Engaging in such activities goes against the very essence of our mission to propagate national unity,” the statement read. “Any corps member found violating this policy will face serious disciplinary actions in accordance with NYSC regulations. Your adherence to this policy is mandatory.”

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According to FIJ, a corps member, who requested anonymity said that they, too, are affected by the economic hardship in the country and should not be barred from protesting.

“People have the right to protest. Corps members also feel the brunt of the economic hardship plaguing every Nigerian and should not be denied their fundamental human rights,” she said.

Another corps member chose to remain unnamed and said the warning was expected, given NYSC’s pro-government stance.

“Of course, they won’t be in support of an anti-government protest,” he remarked. He added, however, that while anyone could protest, it would be unwise to do so with anything revealing their NYSC affiliation.

“I can’t remember any policy statement of NYSC that says do not protest,” he said. “Regardless, it’ll be foolhardy for anyone to protest in their uniforms or with anything that gives away their affiliation with NYSC. Otherwise, why not? Anyone can protest if they want to.”