Former Chief of Army Staff and Nigeria’s immediate past Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai (rtd), has firmly dismissed allegations linking him to individuals purportedly involved in terrorism financing.
The claims, published by Sahara Reporters and attributed to retired Major General Danjuma Ali-Keffi, were described as “false, unfounded and mischievous” in a statement issued by Brigadier General Sani Usman (rtd) on behalf of the former Army chief.
According to the statement, Buratai has never been questioned, investigated or indicted by any security, intelligence, judicial or diplomatic authority over terrorism-related matters. It stressed that the report was a deliberate smear campaign designed to tarnish the reputation of a man who spent over four decades in military service and led Nigeria’s counter-terrorism operations. The statement also criticised Sahara Reporters for what it called a pattern of publishing unverified claims aimed at discrediting the retired general.
ALSO READ Malami reacts to alleged link to terrorism financing
Usman noted that under Buratai’s leadership, the Nigerian Army reclaimed territories previously held by Boko Haram and ISWAP, restored civil authority in affected areas, and facilitated the return of displaced residents. “It defies logic,” he said, to suggest that someone who fought terrorism extensively would be associated with its financiers.
The statement demanded an immediate retraction and public apology from Sahara Reporters and Ali-Keffi, warning that failure to comply would trigger legal action. Despite what he described as malicious publications, Buratai was said to remain committed to academic work, policy advocacy, peacebuilding and philanthropy.
