In a searing criticism of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration, Professor Usman Yusuf, former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), has alleged that his recent arrest and detention were politically motivated attempts to silence dissent. Speaking during an interview on Arise Television on Sunday, Yusuf accused the government of weaponizing law enforcement agencies against individuals who dare to voice criticisms.
Narrating his ordeal, Yusuf said he was "treated like a common criminal" during his arrest, lamenting what he described as a deliberate strategy to intimidate him and send a chilling message to others who might oppose the government’s policies. "It is clear that the Tinubu administration is not tolerant of opposing voices. They want everyone to sing their praises, or face humiliation and persecution," Yusuf declared.
The former NHIS boss is currently facing a five-count charge of alleged fraud brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He was arraigned in February before Justice Chinyere Nwecheonwu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, where he pleaded not guilty to all charges. Despite the gravity of the accusations, Yusuf insists that the charges are part of a broader campaign of political intimidation.
Sources close to the former NHIS boss revealed that his detention conditions were harsh, with Yusuf reportedly denied access to his lawyers and family members for extended periods. He described the experience as an "abuse of due process" and warned that the democratic space in Nigeria was shrinking dangerously under the current leadership.
Yusuf, who previously served as a prominent voice on health sector reforms, has often criticized government policies he believes are detrimental to public welfare. His latest experience, he claims, only strengthens his resolve to continue speaking out against what he termed "an emerging culture of fear and suppression."
The Presidency has yet to respond formally to Yusuf’s allegations. However, political observers note that Yusuf's outcry adds to a growing list of concerns about freedom of expression, human rights, and the politicization of anti-corruption efforts under the Tinubu administration.
As the case proceeds in court, many Nigerians will be watching closely, not just for the outcome of the legal battle, but for what it signals about the health of democracy and civil liberties in the country.