A Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court has ordered the remand of Prof. Usman Yusuf, the former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), at the Kuje Correctional Centre over allegations of fraud and corruption.
Justice Chinyere Nwecheonwu issued the remand order on Monday morning following Yusuf’s arraignment by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The embattled former NHIS boss will remain in custody until February 12, 2025, when the case is set for the next hearing.
EFCC’s Charges: A Web of Corruption Allegations
The EFCC has leveled four serious charges against Prof. Usman Yusuf, including misappropriation of public funds, abuse of office, and awarding fraudulent contracts to associates, including his nephew.
According to court documents, Yusuf was accused of approving the procurement of a luxury vehicle for himself at N49.19 million, despite the allocated budget for the purchase being N30 million. The charge, which falls under the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000, highlights an alleged violation of public trust.
In another charge, the former NHIS boss was accused of awarding a N10.1 million contract to GK Kanki Foundation, purportedly for the training of 90 individuals. However, only 45 participants actually attended, raising suspicions of contract inflation and financial misconduct. This act allegedly contravenes the Public Procurement Act, 2007.
Further investigations by the EFCC revealed that Yusuf allegedly used his position to benefit his nephew, Khalifa Hassan Yusuf, by awarding him a contract worth N17.5 million for media and public relations consultancy services. The prosecution asserts that this move violated anti-corruption laws and further exposed deep-rooted financial irregularities during his tenure at NHIS.
Yusuf’s troubles began during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, following multiple petitions submitted to the Presidency and the Federal Ministry of Health. These petitions detailed alleged financial misconduct, abuse of office, and impunity under his leadership at NHIS.
His arrest on Wednesday was carried out by a large contingent of EFCC operatives, who stormed his residence and took him into custody. The anti-graft agency has since been investigating his financial dealings and how public funds meant for healthcare initiatives were allegedly misappropriated.
With the trial set to continue on February 12, 2025, observers are keenly watching whether Yusuf will be able to defend himself against these weighty allegations or face conviction. Meanwhile, his remand in Kuje Correctional Centre signals a serious crackdown on corruption among high-ranking public officials.
As the case unfolds, Nigerians are left wondering: Will this be another high-profile corruption case that fades into obscurity, or will it serve as a landmark in the fight against financial crimes? With the EFCC tightening its grip on corrupt practices, Yusuf’s fate hangs in the balance.
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