The Osun State Government has suspended all dealings with the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) to facilitate an investigation into allegations of misappropriation of government palliative.

The controversy erupted when youth leaders accused the Commissioner for Youth Affairs, Moshood Olagunju, of soliciting bribes and kickbacks related to financial resources approved for youth initiatives.

Tensions escalated over the distribution of 20 bags of rice, which were provided by the government. The NYCN chairman, Olakolupo Akinbode, reportedly received the rice from the Secretary to the State Government, Teslim Igbalaye, without involving the Ministry of Youth, causing frustration for the commissioner who insisted on following proper procedures.

The disputes surrounding the rice distribution led to accusations against Olagunju, who has faced scrutiny regarding his past dealings.

To address the issue, the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, in a statement, announced the suspension of dealings with the youth body.

“The government notes with concern the deepening leadership feud and controversies surrounding allocated resources and has consequently ordered an investigation by a three-person committee composed of independent nominees. While the investigation is ongoing, the government has decided to implement directives from the Federal Ministry of Youth Development issued to all ministries and stakeholders in the youth sector in late 2025,” Alimi stated.

He explained that the Federal Ministry had previously communicated the withdrawal of the NYCN’s certificate of registration by the Corporate Affairs Commission, citing factionalism and internal conflicts. With the Osun chapter now facing similar issues, the state government has suspended all engagements with the NYCN until the investigation concludes.

Alimi expressed concerns about politicization of the youth sector’s issues, assuring the public that efforts are underway to restore normalcy, transparency, and accountability in the sector.

(The Sun)

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