Ex-NHIS Boss Accuses Former Accountant General of Illegally Withdrawing N10 Billion from Health Insurance Fund
ABUJA, NIGERIA – Nigeria is embroiled in fresh allegations of high-level corruption as Professor Usman Yusuf, former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), has publicly accused a former Accountant General of the Federation of illegally withdrawing a staggering N10 billion from the agency’s account.
Speaking in a recent interview [or at a public forum, specify the platform if known], Professor Yusuf made the explosive claims, alleging that the massive sum was siphoned from the NHIS coffers during the tenure of the unnamed former Accountant General.
He stated that evidence points to the former top government official orchestrating the unauthorized withdrawal, leaving a significant dent in the funds meant for the healthcare of millions of Nigerians.
“It is shocking and unacceptable,” Professor Yusuf stated, vehemently condemning the alleged act. “For someone entrusted with the nation’s finances to allegedly pilfer funds meant for the health and well-being of ordinary citizens is not only a betrayal of public trust but a grave crime.”
While Professor Yusuf did not explicitly name the Accountant General in question during the interview, he emphasized that the timeframe of the alleged illegal withdrawal falls under the tenure of a specific individual who has since left office.
He asserted that the withdrawal was not properly authorized and bypassed established financial protocols within the NHIS and the government.
“We are talking about billions of Naira that vanished from the NHIS account without due process,” Professor Yusuf continued. “This money was earmarked for crucial healthcare programs, for ensuring that Nigerians, especially the vulnerable, have access to affordable and quality medical services.
This alleged theft has undoubtedly hampered the NHIS’s ability to fully deliver on its mandate.”
The former NHIS boss, known for his outspoken stance against corruption within the health sector, urged the current administration to launch an immediate and thorough investigation into the allegations.
He called upon relevant anti-corruption agencies, such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), to swiftly probe the matter and bring those culpable to justice.
“This is not just about money; it is about the health and lives of Nigerians,” Professor Yusuf declared. “The government must demonstrate its commitment to fighting corruption by ensuring that these allegations are investigated transparently and that those responsible are held accountable, no matter how highly placed they may be.”
The allegations have sent ripples through the nation, sparking outrage and calls for accountability. Civil society organizations and concerned citizens are demanding a swift and decisive response from the government, emphasizing the need to protect public funds, especially those allocated to critical sectors like healthcare.
As of the time of this report, efforts to reach the former Accountant General for comment have been unsuccessful. The office of the Accountant General of the Federation has also not yet released an official statement regarding the allegations.
This developing story underscores the persistent challenges Nigeria faces in its fight against corruption, particularly within government institutions.
The outcome of any potential investigation into these serious allegations will be closely watched, and will likely serve as a litmus test for the current administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability in public service.
Tolu Adebayo
Reporter/ Social Media Manager
