The Arewa Renaissance Group has strongly criticized the arrest of Prof. Yusuf Usman, the former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), calling it a politically motivated move that signals Nigeria’s descent into dictatorship under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested Usman on Wednesday over allegations of financial misappropriation and fraudulent contract awards. However, the Arewa Renaissance Group believes the arrest is part of a growing pattern of intimidation against opposition voices.
In a statement released on Saturday, the group’s spokesperson, Sani Sabo, expressed concern that the Tinubu administration is increasingly using legal institutions to target its critics.
“It is becoming increasingly clear that anyone who criticizes the Tinubu administration faces intimidation, harassment, or threats, either from security agencies or the ruling party,” Sabo said.
The group also pointed to what it described as a selective application of justice, highlighting previous cases where opposition figures were allegedly unfairly targeted.
“The EFCC, in November 2024, detained Ifeanyi Okowa, former Delta State Governor and vice-presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), over allegations of misappropriating derivation funds,” the statement read.
The group further noted that the EFCC is reportedly investigating the campaign finances of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), raising concerns that its 2023 presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, may soon face arrest.
“These developments have sparked debates about the EFCC’s impartiality, with many believing that the agency disproportionately targets opposition figures,” Sabo added.
The Arewa Renaissance Group accused the government of stifling free speech and silencing dissenting voices, warning that Nigeria is slipping back into authoritarian rule.
“There is a growing clampdown on individuals and organizations critical of the government, raising alarms about the erosion of press freedom and freedom of expression—both fundamental rights in any democracy,” the statement said.
The group recalled the 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests, where security forces allegedly used excessive force, leading to civilian casualties.
“Apart from the violent suppression of protesters, minors aged 14 to 17 were arrested and faced severe charges, including treason. This is deeply troubling,” Sabo stated.
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Comparing the current situation to Nigeria’s past military regimes, the group warned that the country could return to an era marked by political repression, extrajudicial killings, and the suppression of press freedom.
The Arewa Renaissance Group urged President Tinubu to uphold democratic values, respect human rights, and ensure that law enforcement agencies operate without political influence.
“Nigeria’s democracy must not be sacrificed for political convenience. The government must allow free speech, fair political competition, and an impartial justice system,” the group stated.