EFCC Apprehends Former NHIS Chief Usman Yusuf Over Alleged N4 Billion Fraud

 EFCC Apprehends Former NHIS Chief Usman Yusuf Over Alleged N4 Billion Fraud

In a significant move against corruption, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended Professor Usman Yusuf, the former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), on allegations of misappropriating N4 billion. This arrest underscores the Nigerian government's intensified efforts to combat financial misconduct within its agencies.



Background of the Allegations

Professor Yusuf's tenure at the NHIS, from July 2016 to July 2017, was marred by controversies. In 2019, a panel led by Hassan Bukar indicted him for breaching the Public Procurement Act, leading to his eventual removal from office.The panel's findings revealed unauthorized expenditures, including the allocation of N860 million for staff training without adhering to due process.

Details of the Alleged Misconduct

The EFCC's investigation has brought several alleged infractions to light:

  • Unauthorized Contracts: Awarding a media consultancy contract worth N46.8 million and another for strategic communication training valued at N17.5 million to Lubekh Nigeria Ltd, a company registered for meat processing. Notably, the majority shareholder of this firm is Alhaji Kabiru Yusuf Yar’Adua, purportedly Yusuf's brother.

  • Nepotism in Appointments: Seconding his nephew, Hassan Kabiru, to the procurement department, a move perceived as an attempt to manipulate procurement procedures.

  • Financial Discrepancies: Discrepancies in training expenditures, where payment vouchers indicated 1,992 staff members participated, despite the NHIS having only 1,360 employees at the time.







EFCC's Investigative Actions

The EFCC has been meticulously gathering evidence against Professor Yusuf.In a letter dated December 21, 2017, the commission requested comprehensive documents related to:

  • Local and international training programs sponsored by the NHIS during Yusuf's tenure.

  • Payments made to Katamaya First Call Hospital.

  • Procurement details of the NHIS e-library project.

  • Records of foreign trips undertaken by Yusuf.

  • Fueling expenses for Yusuf's official vehicles.

  • Disbursement of NEEDS assessment funds between July 2016 and July 2017.

Additionally, the EFCC sought confirmation of the employment status of individuals associated with these activities.

The Buhari Media Organization (BMO) has been vocal about the need for accountability.They have urged the Federal Government to ensure that Professor Yusuf faces justice, emphasizing that no individual should be above the law.The BMO's statement highlighted Yusuf's alleged financial mismanagement and called for expedited action by anti-graft agencies.

This arrest serves as a litmus test for Nigeria's commitment to eradicating corruption.Holding high-ranking officials accountable is crucial for restoring public trust and ensuring the integrity of governmental institutions. The outcome of this case will be closely watched as an indicator of the nation's resolve in its anti-corruption crusade.

The apprehension of Professor Usman Yusuf by the EFCC marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria's fight against corruption.As the legal process unfolds, it will be imperative for the authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation, ensuring that justice is served and setting a precedent for future cases.

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