By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Professor Usman Yusuf, the former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), on allegations of financial mismanagement, contract fraud, and abuse of office.

His arrest comes in the wake of an investigation into claims that he inflated the NHIS ICT budget from N4.975 billion to N8.7 billion and approved payments exceeding his official limit.

A highly placed source disclosed this information to Vanguard in Abuja on Wednesday night.

The source further revealed that Yusuf is accused of awarding contracts to Lubekh Nigeria Limited, a company linked to his nephew, Khalifa Hassan Yusufu. He allegedly exploited his position for personal gain by approving contracts without adhering to proper procedures and awarding them to companies lacking the requisite expertise.

The source stated, “The investigation into these allegations was initiated by a petition dated 31 October 2018, signed by Attahiru Ibrahim.

“The petition alleged fraudulent practices and impunity perpetrated by Professor Usman Yusuf during his tenure as Executive Secretary of NHIS.

“He reportedly awarded contracts to Lubekh Nigeria Limited, a company of which his nephew Khalifa Hassan Yusufu is a director.

“The former NHIS Executive Secretary is also accused of inflating the ICT budget from N4.975 billion to N8.7 billion and approving payments beyond his authorised limit.

“He allegedly misused his position for personal gain, including approving contracts without due process and awarding contracts to companies that lacked the necessary competence.”

Confirming the arrest to our correspondent, EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale stated that the commission is continuing its investigation, with potential legal proceedings to follow.

Oyewale declined to provide further comments.