CNG condemns arrest of ex-NHIS’ boss, Usman Yusuf, demands his release
The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), strongly condemns the arrest and continued detention of Prof. Usman Yusuf, the former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). In a statement, Com. Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, National Coordinator of CNG, said Yusuf has, in recent times, emerged as […]
Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG)
The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), strongly condemns the arrest and continued detention of Prof. Usman Yusuf, the former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In a statement, Com. Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, National Coordinator of CNG, said Yusuf has, in recent times, emerged as one of the most vocal critics of the current administration, fearlessly exposing the failings of its policies and calling for good governance, transparency, and accountability.
Charanchi said his arrest, therefore, is not only a blatant act of political persecution but also a clear attempt to intimidate opposition and suppress free speech.
The statement said: “While the CNG recognises that the EFCC or any agency has the mandate to invite or arrest any person suspected of wrongdoing, it rejects politically orchestrated silencing of people that are critical to the government whereas many corrupt people are being shielded and pampered by the same government.
“The CNG finds it deeply troubling that an administration that once thrived on opposition politics and enjoyed the freedom to criticize previous governments is now resorting to draconian measures to stifle democratic engagement. Such acts of political suppression set a dangerous precedent and threaten the very foundations of Nigeria’s democracy.
“We cannot afford to regress into an era where dissent is criminalized and opposition voices are forcefully silenced through harassment, intimidation and arbitrary arrest.”
While demanding the immediate and unconditional release of Prof. Yusuf, CNG urged the government to focus on addressing the pressing challenges facing the nation, “rather than expending energy on silencing critics.”