Usman Yusuf, the former Executive Secretary of the NHIS, gave an interview on Symfoni TV in which he spoke frankly about the current political climate and legal disputes involving opposition leaders, especially former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai.

“I have known El-Rufai for 50 years; he studied quantity surveying, and I went into medicine,” Yusuf said during the interview. He employed the statement to highlight the longstanding personal and academic bond between himself and the previous governor of Kaduna State.

According to Yusuf, their friendship began in their first years of college, when they were both starting their academic careers before going on to pursue various careers. He claimed that he chose the medical sector, eventually building a career in hematology and oncology, while El-Rufai sought quantity surveying and later entered public service and politics.

He pointed out that even though he has a lengthy history, he has always taken an independent stance in politics, occasionally openly criticizing El-Rufai’s conduct when he was in power. Yusuf emphasized that objectivity should not be superseded by personal knowledge, particularly when evaluating leadership and government.

The former NHIS head also brought up the issues surrounding El-Rufai, saying that instead of using partisan politics, public individuals should be judged fairly and on facts. He emphasized the value of due process by stating that allegations must be proven in a court of law and not in the court of public opinion.

In addition, Yusuf drew attention to worries about the larger political environment, cautioning that if left unchecked, rising tensions and perceived targeting of opposition leaders might undermine democratic institutions. He urged moderation, impartiality, and respect for the rule of law.

He concluded by pleading with political leaders to prioritize national unity and institutional integrity, pointing out that Nigeria’s development is contingent upon justice, transparency, and the capacity of its leaders to put aside party affiliations.