Former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Professor Usman Yusuf, has sharply criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its alleged attempt to crush opposition and silence critical voices, calling it a dangerous slide toward a one-party dictatorship.
In an interview on Arise TV, Yusuf revealed how his recent detention was part of a larger effort to intimidate dissenters and suppress any opposition to the government’s actions. He described the experience as an effort to break his spirit, but instead, it only strengthened his resolve.
“They came to my house without a warrant, just barged in and said they were from the EFCC. They didn’t even give me the courtesy of changing my clothes before they took me away,” Yusuf recounted, recalling the event that unfolded on January 29, 2025.
“It was clear this was not just about an investigation; it was an intimidation tactic to make an example of me.”
Yusuf, who spent six days in EFCC custody before being granted a hearing, went on to explain how he was denied bail for another 24 days, an action he deems illegal and unconstitutional. His case, he says, was designed to send a chilling message to other critics of the government.
“They wanted to break me, to make me shut up. But I’m not going to be silenced,” Yusuf declared.
The former NHIS boss pointed out the irony in Tinubu’s actions, noting that the president had once been a vocal advocate for democracy and an opponent of military rule. “Tinubu was once a NADECO activist fighting for democracy, and now he is the one threatening it,” Yusuf said.
“His government is trying to push Nigeria towards a one-party state, and we cannot allow that to happen.”
Yusuf stressed that the ability to criticize the government is a fundamental right in a democratic society. He warned that if allowed to continue, this authoritarian trend could erode the country’s democratic values and lead to the silencing of all opposition.
“Every citizen has the right to speak out, to challenge their leaders when necessary. But under this administration, dissent is being stifled,” he said.
“We need to stand up now and protect our democracy before it’s too late.”
Yusuf’s own history has been marked by controversy. Appointed NHIS Executive Secretary in 2016 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, he faced multiple suspensions over corruption allegations, though he has always maintained his innocence. Despite these challenges, Yusuf remains committed to fighting for the principles of democracy and good governance.
“The real threat to Nigeria isn’t corruption, it’s the erosion of democratic freedoms and the unchecked concentration of power,” Yusuf warned.
“I will continue to speak out for what is right, no matter the cost.”
Former executive secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme,
Usman Yusuf,
