“EFCC Detains Ex-NHIS Boss Prof. Usman Yusuf in Abuja Amid Ongoing Investigation”

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested Professor Usman Yusuf, the former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), on Wednesday. Yusuf was apprehended at his Abuja residence around 4:46 pm in the presence of his wife and children by armed operatives.

The professor, known for his expertise in haematology-oncology and bone marrow transplantation, was taken to an undisclosed location for questioning. Details surrounding his arrest have not been revealed by the EFCC, but sources suggest the arrest may be linked to his tenure at NHIS.

While the specific charges remain unclear, an insider mentioned that the arrest is part of an ongoing investigation. “The reason for his arrest can’t be made public now because investigations are still ongoing. What I know is that he’s in custody and will assist the detectives with their inquiries,” the source stated.

In 2019, Yusuf was removed from his position as NHIS Executive Secretary by then-President Muhammadu Buhari, just seven months after a fact-finding panel set up by the Federal Ministry of Health recommended his dismissal due to allegations of mismanagement involving N919 million.