Prof. Yusuf,
The Katsina State Elders Forum has called for the immediate and unconditional release of Professor Usman Yusuf, the former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), who was recently arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Professor Yusuf, an expert in hematology and bone marrow transplantation, was appointed to lead the NHIS after returning from the United States.
However, he has been outspoken in his criticism of the government in various interviews and public statements.
Last week, the EFCC raided his residence in Abuja, arresting him in front of his family members.
He was later arraigned on allegations of fraud and remanded in custody.
The Katsina Elders Forum, however, insists that Yusuf’s detention is politically motivated, arguing that he is being targeted for exercising his right to free speech.
The forum’s secretary, Aliyu Sani Muhammad, questioned whether President Bola Tinubu’s administration was suppressing democratic freedoms.
Muhammad also pointed out what he described as selective justice, stating that while Yusuf is accused of awarding a minor contract to a relative, President Tinubu’s son, Seyi, was given a significant contract for the Lagos-Calabar Highway without due process.
“For this government, some individuals are against Usman simply because of his critical interviews. He is a globally recognized expert, and even the Americans value his expertise. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, we are treating him unfairly,” Muhammad said.
Senator Mamman Abubakar Danmusa, the acting chairman of the forum, warned that Yusuf’s continued detention could have serious consequences, urging President Tinubu to ensure justice prevails.
