A Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Ushie Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, has apologised for her remarks after referring to Lagos as a “smelling state” in a now-viral video.
Taking to Instagram on Monday, Raye acknowledged that her choice of words may have offended Lagos residents and expressed regret for any unintended disrespect. She explained that her comments were not meant to insult those who call Lagos home but rather to share her personal experience as a visitor.
Raye clarified that the controversial remark was part of her 30-day rant challenge, an initiative aimed at highlighting pressing societal issues in Nigeria. Her goal, she stated, was to spark conversations about the country’s worsening economic situation.
“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. “But as a visitor here, I could tell there was a difference in the atmosphere and quality of air. If the way I put it triggered your emotions and love for your birth state, I am sorry. I didn’t mean to talk down on your home.”
She further explained that her initial plan was to post at least 20 videos addressing societal issues, hoping to gain traction by the 20th day. However, the first video gained significant attention immediately, resonating with many Nigerians.
Beyond the Lagos comments, Raye also shed light on the financial struggles many young Nigerians face. She lamented that despite working over 45 hours a week, she and many others still struggle to afford basic leisure activities.
“I work 45+ hours a week, and I should be able to afford hanging out with my friends every weekend. However, I can’t. But how many of us can actually afford that? You spend all week working and can’t even feel alive during the weekends,” she wrote.
Urging Nigerians to focus on demanding better living conditions rather than getting distracted by controversies, she added: “I encourage all of us to ask for what we believe we deserve. Distractions will come, but if we stay committed to asking for better, we will get better.”
Raye has been trending across social media since Saturday after her TikTok video criticizing the country’s economic hardship went viral. In the video, she expressed frustration over the rising cost of living and called out President Bola Tinubu’s administration, questioning its efforts in addressing the struggles of everyday Nigerians.
While some supported her sentiments, others condemned her remarks about Lagos, sparking widespread debate online.
