Yemi Obafemi
A youth corps member serving in Lagos State, Ushie Uguamaye also known as Raye, has apologized to residents following comments about the city’s air quality that sparked reactions online.
In a statement, the corps member clarified that the remarks were not meant to demean the state but to highlight concerns about living conditions.
The apology came amid a broader campaign urging young Nigerians to demand better living standards, citing long working hours and the inability to afford basic leisure activities. The viral challenge, initially planned for 30 days, gained traction on its first day, reflecting widespread frustration among citizens.
She wrote, “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.
“But as a visitor here, I could tell there was a difference in the atmosphere and quality of air here. 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.
“When I started the 30-day rant challenge, I said I just wanted to be heard. I believed that if I got to DAY-20 people would begin to hear me and join me to speak to the government.
“My target was to make at least 20 videos complaining until I was heard. Lucky for me, I didn’t even have to get to DAY 2 because a lot of us were actually angry, and Day 1 of the challenge was enough for people to join me.
“I want better for myself. (And I hope you do too). The complaints I made are valid regardless of whatever ‘lifestyle’ you think I am living.
“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 to hang out with our friends? How many can afford that in reality? You spend all week working and can’t even feel alive during the weekends.”
She emphasized the importance of persistence in demanding better living conditions, despite inevitable distractions.
“I encourage all of us to ask for what we believe we deserve. I know distractions will take us again, very soon. But if we stay committed to asking for better we will get better.”
