Yusuf Usman criticizes security deployment and vote-buying in Nigeria

Professor Yusuf Usman, the former chairman of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), has criticized the deployment of over 30,000 security personnel during the Osun State gubernatorial election. Usman characterized the massive security presence as an excessive attempt to intimidate voters, noting that the citizens of Osun State ultimately exercised their rights despite the deployment.

Usman questioned the prioritization of election security over regional stability, suggesting that if such a large force were deployed to areas like Zamfara, existing insecurity could be addressed. He also condemned the practice of vote-buying, where politicians allegedly spend billions in public funds to influence voters with small amounts of money and food.

Addressing voters in northern Nigeria, Usman urged them to consider the long-term consequences of their political choices rather than accepting short-term benefits. He further criticized the use of religious sentiments as a political mobilization strategy, such as appeals for Muslim-Muslim political tickets.