Yusuf Alleges Obi Expelled Northerners as Anambra Governor

Former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Usman Yusuf, has alleged that former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi once ordered the expulsion of northerners from the state during his tenure.

Yusuf made the claim during a televised interview on Trust TV, where he spoke on past governance decisions in Anambra State and their impact on residents from northern Nigeria.

According to him, Obi not only directed northerners to leave the state but also introduced identity cards for those who were permitted to remain in Anambra at the time.

He described the alleged actions as discriminatory and suggested they affected the freedom of movement and residence of northern migrants living and working in the state during Obi’s administration.

Yusuf, however, did not provide documentary proof or specific official records to support the claims during the interview but maintained his position on the matter.

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The allegations come years after Obi served as governor of Anambra State between 2006 and 2014, a period often referenced for his fiscal management policies and governance reforms.

The former NHIS boss has been known for his outspoken commentary on political and national issues, frequently weighing in on governance decisions and public policy debates in Nigeria.

As of the time of filing this report, Obi has not issued any public response to Yusuf’s latest allegations.

The claims are expected to generate renewed political discussions, particularly because Obi remains a prominent national figure following his 2023 presidential campaign under the Labour Party, where he emerged as a major contender in the general election.

Political observers note that such allegations, if left unaddressed, could fuel further debate around ethnic relations and governance practices in Nigeria’s diverse political environment.

However, supporters of Obi have in the past defended his record as governor, describing his administration as one focused on accountability, infrastructure development, and prudent management of state resources.

The latest comments by Yusuf add to ongoing political narratives involving key national figures as attention gradually shifts toward future electoral contests.

Neither Obi nor his representatives had responded to the allegations at the time this report was concluded.