A coalition of civil society organizations has applauded the Federal Government’s commitment to fighting corruption, particularly the prosecution of former National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) Executive Secretary, Prof. Usman Yusuf.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the Public Asset Accountability Network (PAAN) and Yes Integrity Builds Advocacy Reach Network (YABRIN) described the move as a step toward accountability and national economic growth.
The statement, signed by PAAN co-founder Jason Kolawole and YABRIN’s Kabir Usman, emphasized that holding public officials accountable would deter corruption and ensure public office is not treated as personal property.
“The prosecution of Prof. Usman Yusuf aligns with our call for President Bola Tinubu to clean up the public service and reinforce the principle that accountability in governance is non-negotiable,” the statement read.
The groups urged the Federal Government to extend its anti-graft focus to former Controller General of Prisons, Ahmad Ja’afaru, accusing him of massive corruption during his tenure.
They alleged that Ja’afaru engaged in financial misconduct, contract manipulations, and misappropriation of prison service assets.
PAAN insisted that the government must investigate, prosecute, and recover all allegedly looted assets from Ja’afaru, arguing that his actions had significantly undermined the Nigerian Correctional Service and national development.
They further warned against attempts to shield corrupt officials under the guise of political victimization, stating that such narratives are merely tactics to evade justice.
“For the avoidance of doubt, it is well known that Ahmed Ja’afaru manipulated his way to the position of Controller General, and once in office, he abused his authority for personal enrichment. Such individuals should never hold public office again,” the statement concluded.
The coalition urged the government to take swift action in recovering all misappropriated assets and ensure that those responsible for corruption face the full weight of the law.