In a bold revelation, former NHIS chief Usman Yusuf claims President Tinubu’s administration is working to stifle dissent and silence critics, raising serious concerns about Nigeria’s democratic future.
Yusuf Opens Up About Ordeal in EFCC Custody
Usman Yusuf, the former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), has alleged that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government is making deliberate efforts to crush opposition voices and move Nigeria toward a one-party dictatorship.
Speaking in an interview on Arise TV on Sunday, Yusuf revealed that his recent arrest and detention were part of a larger plan to intimidate him and suppress democratic freedoms.
In February, Yusuf faced a five-count fraud charge brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He pleaded not guilty before Justice Chinyere Nwecheonwu at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court.
Detention Experience Strengthens His Resolve
Reflecting on his time at Kuje Prison, Yusuf described it as a period of “rest, prayers, and reflection,” emphasizing that it only solidified his determination to speak out against injustice.
Recalling the events of January 29, Yusuf narrated how EFCC operatives stormed his home without presenting an arrest warrant.
“At about 6:30 PM, my wife informed me that some men had entered our home. They claimed I was expecting them. When I confronted them, they quickly flashed their badges, confirming they were from the EFCC,” Yusuf said.
He recounted how the agents denied him the chance to change clothes and prevented his wife from giving him alternative clothing.
Inside their bus, Yusuf said he was sandwiched between an armed officer and a young operative who acted as if they had captured a notorious criminal.
Denial of Bail and Extended Detention
According to Yusuf, he spent six days at EFCC facilities before being arraigned. Due to the judge’s illness, he was denied bail and had to spend an additional 24 days at Kuje Prison.
“The denial of my bail was unjust. Bail is a constitutional right for anyone accused of non-capital offenses. My case had nothing to do with terrorism or capital crimes,” Yusuf stressed.
He maintained that his detention was a deliberate move by Tinubu’s administration to break his spirit—a move that, according to him, failed.
“Tinubu Is Betraying His Democratic Roots”
Yusuf didn’t mince words in criticizing Tinubu, pointing out the irony that the president, who once fled military dictatorship as a NADECO activist, is now allegedly trying to stifle opposition in a democratic era.
“Criticizing the government is a fundamental right in any democracy. President Tinubu, who once fought against military oppression, is now acting to suppress free speech and opposition,” Yusuf stated.
He warned that the current administration’s actions risk turning Nigeria into a one-party dictatorship—a move he vowed to resist.
Background on Usman Yusuf
Yusuf was appointed NHIS Executive Secretary in 2016 during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. However, he was suspended in 2017 and again in 2018 over corruption allegations before being formally removed from office in 2019.
What are your thoughts on Yusuf’s claims? Do you believe Nigeria’s democracy is under threat? Share your opinions in the comments section and stay connected with NIGPOST for more critical political updates!
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