A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of Professor Usman Yusuf, former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), in Kuje Correctional Centre over allegations of abuse of office and contract fraud.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned Yusuf on Monday on a five-count amended charge related to alleged irregular contract awards during his tenure between 2016 and 2017. He pleaded not guilty to all charges.
During the proceedings, Yusuf’s counsel, O.I. Habeeb, requested that he be kept in EFCC custody while his bail application was being considered. However, Justice Chinyere Nwecheonwu rejected the request, ruling that he be transferred to the Nigerian Correctional Service, as is customary after an arraignment. The court then scheduled a hearing for his bail application on February 12.
Meanwhile, Yusuf’s arrest and detention have sparked reactions, with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar describing the development as politically motivated. Atiku referred to Yusuf as a “fierce and unyielding social critic” and accused the government of using state institutions to silence dissenting voices.
The EFCC’s charges against Yusuf include allegations that he improperly awarded contracts without following due process and used his office for personal gain. As the legal battle unfolds, all eyes will be on the February 12 hearing, where the court will decide on his bail request.