BREAKING: Embattled NHIS boss, Usman Yusuf sent on compulsory leave

The federal government has approved that Usman Yusuf, Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), should proceed on administrative leave immediately.

This is to allow an investigative panel carry out its task without interference.

Ben Omogo, a director in the office of the head of the civil service of the federation, has been deployed to oversee the affairs of the scheme in Yusuf’s absence.

Olusegun Adekunle, permanent secretary (general services office) for the secretary to the government of the federation, announced this in a statement on Wednesday.

“The federal government has observed with deep concern the growing tension between Boards and Chief Executives and their attendant implications for governance,” the statement read.

“For the avoidance of doubt, government will neither tolerate acts of indiscipline from any appointee nor will it habour any acts of corruption. Government will however ensure that due process is followed strictly in trying to maintain discipline and probity in public service.

“With specific reference to recent developments at the National Health Insurance Scheme, Mr. President has after due consideration approved the establishment of an independent fact-finding panel to investigate the alleged infractions by the Executive Secretary and report back within two weeks.”

Consequently, the federal government has set up a panel to probe the allegations levelled against Yusuf.

The terms of the panel headed by Hassan Bukar are to investigate the alleged infractions listed by the NHIS governing council.