Osun suspends relations with NYCN, as Commissioner, Youth body trade words over kickbacks

The Osun State Government has officially halted all dealings with the state chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) amidst a heated leadership tussle and allegations of financial misappropriation.

The Commissioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi, announced the suspension, noting that the move aligns with a 2025 Federal Ministry of Youth Development directive that followed the withdrawal of the NYCN’s CAC registration due to national infighting.

A three-man investigative panel has been set up to probe the crisis.

The government’s intervention follows a public spat between the youth body and the Commissioner for Youth Affairs, Moshood Olagunju.

The NYCN, through its PRO Hassan Olayemi, accused the Commissioner of receiving kickbacks on approved funds.

Debunking claims that the council received N25 million for programmes, Olayemi clarified that only N17 million was remitted.

“We call on the Osun State Government to urgently call the Honourable Commissioner to order. His actions risk igniting unnecessary crises among youths,” the NYCN stated.

The government, however, maintains that the suspension is necessary to restore transparency and accountability, dismissing opposition involvement as politicization.