Professor Usman Yusuf, former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), has publicly condemned his recent arrest and detention by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), alleging political motivations orchestrated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration.
In a detailed account shared from his detention, Professor Yusuf described his experience as a deliberate attempt to intimidate and silence dissenting voices. He recounted how EFCC operatives arrived at his residence on January 29, 2025, during the evening, to arrest him. Despite the serious nature of the arrest, Yusuf maintained a composed demeanor, even joking with the operatives about the lack of handcuffs and chains, which they found amusing .
Following his arrest, Yusuf was detained for six days at the EFCC facility before being transferred to Kuje Prison. He noted the professionalism and respect shown by the Nigerian Correctional Service staff during his incarceration. Yusuf emphasized that his struggle was not with the EFCC or its operatives but with what he termed the "corrupt and tyrannical government" led by President Tinubu. He expressed confidence in his legal team to vigorously defend him against what he described as "baseless recycled falsehoods" .
The arrest has sparked widespread criticism from various quarters. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the detention, suggesting that it was politically motivated and aimed at suppressing opposition voices. Atiku accused the Tinubu administration of using state machinery to target political opponents under the guise of anti-corruption efforts .
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) also expressed concern over the arrest, labeling it a politically motivated attempt to silence opposition. They warned that such actions could signal a dangerous slide toward authoritarianism and called for the immediate release of Professor Yusuf .
As the legal proceedings continue, the case has become a focal point in the ongoing debate about the use of anti-corruption agencies for political purposes and the broader implications for democracy in Nigeria.
