Arraignment of Ex-NHIS Boss Usman Yusuf Adjourned to February 3

Arraignment of Ex-NHIS Boss Usman Yusuf Adjourned to February 3

The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Kuje has adjourned the arraignment of former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Usman Yusuf, to Monday, February 3, 2025.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) brought Yusuf before Justice Chinyere E. Nwecheonwu on Thursday, January 30, 2025, to face charges of alleged fraud. However, the court postponed the arraignment to allow the prosecution to amend the charges.

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EFCC Charges and Allegations

Yusuf is accused of abusing his office by:

  1. Approving a vehicle purchase for ₦49,197,750, significantly higher than the budgeted sum of ₦30,000,000.
  2. Retaining private interests in GK Kanki Foundation, and awarding a ₦10.1 million contract to the foundation for the training of 90 persons, though only 45 individuals were reportedly trained.

Court Proceedings

During the hearing, defense counsel, Isah Dokto Haruna, sought bail for Yusuf. However, Justice Nwecheonwu declined the request, citing the absence of a formal arraignment.

The judge ordered Yusuf to remain in EFCC custody until his next court appearance. “In the absence of a formal arraignment, bail at this stage is premature,” she ruled.

The case will continue on February 3, 2025, when Yusuf is expected to be formally arraigned.

The FCT High Court has adjourned the arraignment of ex-NHIS boss Usman Yusuf to February 3, 2025, as the EFCC prepares amended charges of fraud and abuse of office.

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