EFCC Detains Former NHIS Boss Usman Yusuf in Anti-Corruption Operation

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Usman Yusuf, former Executive Secretary of the NHIS, in a crackdown on corruption. Get the latest updates on the case.

Agents from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) conducted a raid on the Abuja home of Prof. Usman Yusuf, the former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), arresting him in front of his wife and children.

At approximately 4:46 PM on Wednesday, gun-wielding operatives arrested the renowned professor of hematology-oncology and bone marrow transplantation, escorting them to an undisclosed location.

Although the EFCC has not yet revealed the reasons behind the arrest, sources indicate it could be related to his time as head of the NHIS.

Prof. Yusuf’s tenure at the NHIS was fraught with controversies, such as claims of financial mismanagement and administrative conflicts. Nevertheless, official information about his current situation remains undisclosed.

“The reason for his arrest cannot be disclosed at this time due to ongoing investigations. However, I can confirm that he is in custody and will assist detectives with their inquiries,” a well-informed source informed Daily Trust on Wednesday night.

In 2019, former President Muhammadu Buhari removed Yusuf from his position seven months after a fact-finding panel established by the Federal Ministry of Health recommended his dismissal due to allegations of mismanaging N919 million.

When contacted, EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale stated that he would look into the matter and provide an update. However, by the time this report was filed, he had yet to follow up as promised.