The trial of former NHIA Executive Secretary, Prof. Usman Yusuf, has sparked backlash, with critics calling it a politically motivated witch-hunt.
The EFCC accused Yusuf of embezzlement and abuse of office, alleging he approved inflated contracts and awarded deals to entities linked to associates. He pleaded not guilty and was remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre pending trial on February 12.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Minister Solomon Dalung, and activist IG Wala condemned the prosecution, calling it an attempt to silence government critics.
Many Nigerians on social media echoed their concerns, with some describing the case as retaliation for Yusuf’s past stance against corruption in NHIA.