Arrest Order forActivist Kennedy Iyere

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the arrest of activist Kennedy Iyere, the Coordinator-General of Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalization Programme (YEIDEP). This order comes after serious allegations of criminal breach of trust, obtaining by false pretence, cheating, and impersonation were made against him.

Background of the Allegations

A letter dated November 13, 2025, signed by Bukola Kuti, a principal staff officer, directed the officer-in-charge of the police special investigation unit to begin a full probe into a petition submitted against Iyere. The petition, filed by Valen Legal Practitioners on behalf of its clients, accuses Iyere of defrauding Silver Green Hotel Limited and several individuals of a total sum of N113,508,757.

Details of the Petition

The law firm claimed that Iyere fraudulently obtained N26,000,000 from Silver Green Hotel Limited under the false representation that he was a staff member of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development. He allegedly told them that the government would sponsor a youth empowerment programme tagged ‘YEIDEP’. Additional victims came forward after the first complaint was submitted on October 23, 2025, revealing a pattern of identical fraudulent schemes against multiple unsuspecting persons and establishments.

List of Alleged Victims

The petition lists the alleged additional victims and the amounts involved:

• Mr. Clement Ignatius (N6,300,000)
• Bishop (Dr.) Susan Great (N1,600,000)
• Mr. Emeka Owuchelu Iche (N46,000,000)
• Mr. Gbenga Okenla (N1,500,000)
• Pastor Shadrack (N18,000,000)
• Dr. Duru (N12,000,000)
• Mr. Obinna Ukor (N7,500,000)
• Mr. Aneke Everistus (N3,015,900)
• Mr. Obinna Ifeandu (N17,137,900)
• Valencia Hotels (N454,957)

Controversy Surrounding Iyere

Iyere was appointed as Coordinator-General of Nigerian Youth Economic Engagement and De-Radicalisation Programme (NIYEEDEP) in November 2024, which was later renamed YEIDEP in March 2025. The programme aims at improving youth participation in nation-building, economic development, de-radicalization, and national security. However, Iyere has been a controversial figure, openly accusing the Central Bank of Nigeria of mishandling public funds during an interview.

Conclusion

The police have begun an investigation into the allegations raised by the petitioners. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen how these allegations will affect the future of YEIDEP and Iyere’s role in it. The incident highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in public programs, especially those aimed at youth economic empowerment and national development.