From Abel Leonard, Lafia
The Nasarawa State Government has dissolved the leadership of the State Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) following a protracted leadership crisis involving factional chairmen Comrade Ja’afar Loko Mohammed and Comrade Nasir Alhassan.
The government’s decision, announced by the State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, takes immediate effect. The ministry cited violations of the NYCN constitution, impersonation, and allegations of abuse of office against Comrade Ja’afar Loko as reasons for the dissolution.
Head of Public Relations at the ministry, Eche Amos, confirmed the development in a statement yesterday.
“After careful consideration and thorough investigations, the government found it necessary to intervene to restore order and stability to the organisation,” he stated.
The statement noted that the NYCN, established in 1964, plays a vital role in youth development but has been hindered in Nasarawa State due to internal conflicts and misconduct.
To ensure continuity, the government has set up a seven-member Caretaker Committee to oversee the state chapter’s affairs. The committee members include:
– Comrade Solomon John Damina – Chairman
– Comrade Abdullahi Labaran – Member
– Comrade Akolo David – Member
– Comrade Muhammad Lawal Nata’ala – Member
– Comrade Jennifer Gana – Member
– Mr. Jonathan Gabu – Ministry’s Representative
– Comrade Attama Ibrahim Abdullahi – Secretary
According to Amos, the committee is tasked with restructuring local chapters, reconciling the warring factions, opening a dedicated NYCN bank account, and organising fresh elections in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and the NYCN national body.
“The government, through the supervising ministry, has the responsibility to ensure that the NYCN operates in a transparent, accountable, and democratic manner,” Amos added.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to youth development in the state, stating, “The Nasarawa State Government remains dedicated to supporting the NYCN in its mission to empower and develop the youth for the benefit of the state and Nigeria at large.”
The ministry assured stakeholders that the caretaker committee would work diligently to restore stability and ensure a smooth transition in line with the NYCN constitution.