Tinubu Trying to Silence Me Through EFCC Arrest, Alleges Prof. Yusuf

Professor Usman Yusuf, former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), has alleged that his recent arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was politically motivated, accusing the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of attempting to silence dissenting voices.

In a video interview with ARISE News, Professor Yusuf claimed that his arrest and subsequent detention were part of a deliberate effort by the government to intimidate and suppress opposition figures.

“The EFCC’s actions against me are a deliberate attempt to demean and dehumanize. I endured six days in an EFCC cell and 24 days in Kuje Prison, but this will not silence me,” Yusuf said.

He further alleged that President Tinubu’s administration is fostering an environment where dissent is no longer tolerated, warning that such actions could push Nigeria toward a one-party dictatorial system.

Professor Yusuf’s time at the NHIS had been fraught with controversies. He was suspended multiple times over allegations of financial misconduct, including unauthorized disbursements amounting to N6.8 billion.

The EFCC’s recent arrest, which stems from these alleged financial irregularities, has rekindled public attention on his troubled tenure at the health agency.

As of the time of reporting, neither the EFCC nor the Presidency has officially responded to Yusuf’s claims of political persecution.

Professor Yusuf insisted that despite the government’s attempts to intimidate him, he remains committed to speaking out against what he described as the growing authoritarianism in the country.