Temitope Ajayi, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, has dismissed rumors that he called for severe punishment against Ushie Uguamaye, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, following her criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on social media.
Ajayi’s earlier comments, which seemed to support strong disciplinary action against Uguamaye for her tweet, sparked a backlash, with some media outlets misinterpreting his remarks.
These reports even falsely claimed that Ajayi had called for Uguamaye to face execution by firing squad or hanging.
In a statement released on Monday, Ajayi denied the allegations, clarifying that his words had been taken out of context. He stressed that he had never advocated for anything beyond the NYSC’s established by-laws.
“It has become necessary to correct the misinformation and deliberate mischief surrounding my comment on a Facebook post,” Ajayi said, expressing frustration over the media’s misrepresentation of his statement.
The controversy erupted after Uguamaye referred to President Tinubu as a “terrible leader” in a social media post, prompting Ajayi’s initial response.
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In his clarification, Ajayi explained that his comment was merely intended to support the full application of the NYSC’s disciplinary guidelines, particularly in cases of behavior that undermines the program. He emphasized that the harshest penalty under NYSC rules is expulsion, with no suggestion or implication of any further punishment.
“The maximum punishment under NYSC regulations is expulsion. Nothing beyond the established norms and laws was suggested or remotely implied,” Ajayi reiterated.
Ajayi also reiterated his support for the NYSC, describing it as an important institution that fosters national unity.
He highlighted the scheme as a “historic and cherished national initiative” that should not be undermined by acts of indiscipline.
“The NYSC program represents our triumph over division and our ongoing efforts to build a stronger, more united nation,” he said.
In closing, Ajayi called on Nigerians to uphold values of dignity, discipline, and respect, stressing that these principles are essential for maintaining national cohesion.
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