Some corps members serving in Lagos State have reacted to an official statement, warning them against joining any form of protests.

A statement by Baderinwa Yetunde, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Lagos State Coordinator, had warned corps members against joining any form of protest, otherwise they would are at risk of facing serious disciplinary actions.

The statement was sent to corps members on Sunday ahead of the #EndHardshipProtest proposed to kick off on August 1.

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According to the statement, it was against NYSC policy for corps members to participate in any form of protests, whether physically or online.

“Engaging in such activities goes against the very essence of our mission to propagate National unity,” read the statement.

“Any corps member found violating this policy will face serious disciplinary actions in accordance with NYSC regulations. Your adherence to this policy is mandatory.”

A corps member, who does not want to be named, told FIJ that they are not exempted from the brunt of the economic hardship in the country, hence they should not be prevented from protesting.

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“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, who also wishes to be unnamed, revealed that the warning did not come as a surprise, considering that NYSC is a pro-government programme.

“Of course, they won’t be in support of an anti-government protest.”

He, however, noted that while anyone could protest, it would be unwise to do so with anything that reveals their affiliation to the NYSC scheme.

“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.”