Ahmad Ja'afaru
A coalition of 71 civil society organizations has commended the Federal Government for its commitment to fighting corruption, particularly the prosecution of former National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) Executive Secretary, Prof. Usman Yusuf.
In a statement released in Abuja, the Public Asset Accountability Network (PAAN) and Yes Integrity Builds Advocacy Reach Network (YABRIN) described the prosecution as a significant step toward restoring transparency and strengthening public trust in governance.
Signed by PAAN’s co-founder Jason Kolawole and YABRIN’s Kabir Usman, the statement emphasized that accountability in public service is essential for national development.
“When public officials understand that they will be held accountable for their actions, they are less likely to treat government offices as personal estates,” the statement read. “This move reinforces the principle that no individual is above the law, and that public resources must be used for the common good.”
Beyond Yusuf’s case, the groups called on the Federal Government to extend its anti-corruption focus to the Nigerian Correctional Service by investigating former Controller General of Prisons, Ahmad Ja’afaru.
They alleged that Ja’afaru engaged in financial misconduct, contract fraud, and the diversion of public assets for personal enrichment.
“Ja’afaru’s tenure was marred by allegations of mismanagement and abuse of office, including the diversion of funds meant for prison reforms and inmate welfare,” the statement continued. “His actions not only undermined the correctional system but also deprived the nation of critical resources needed for security and rehabilitation efforts.”
The coalition argued that prosecuting high-profile cases like those of Yusuf and Ja’afaru would serve as a deterrent to other public officials, ensuring that governance is driven by accountability rather than personal gain.
They urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to intensify efforts in recovering misappropriated public funds and assets, stressing that corruption remains a major obstacle to Nigeria’s progress.
“The fight against corruption must be consistent and non-selective,” they concluded. “Public officials who betray the public trust should be held accountable, regardless of their past political affiliations or influence.”
The groups reaffirmed their commitment to advocating for transparency and good governance, vowing to continue monitoring government efforts in tackling corruption across all sectors.