Former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (retired), has issued a strong rebuttal against an online publication that connected him to individuals accused of financing terrorism. The retired General and former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin has labeled the allegations as a malicious smear campaign.
A Firm Denial and Legal Threat
In a statement released on Saturday, 6th December 2025, and delivered by former Army spokesman Brigadier-General Sani Usman (retired), Buratai described the report as false, unfounded, and mischievous. He insisted the narrative was deliberately crafted to damage his hard-earned reputation.
The statement included a direct challenge to the online platform, demanding an immediate retraction and an unreserved public apology. Failure to comply, Buratai warned, would result in appropriate legal action being taken against the publication.
No Official Inquiry or Indictment
Buratai firmly stated that throughout his decades of military and diplomatic service, no official body has ever linked him to terrorism financing. He emphasized that he has never been questioned, investigated, or indicted by any security institution, intelligence agency, judicial panel, or administrative authority on such matters.
He criticized the report for relying solely on the unverified personal claims of another retired army General, calling it a clear misrepresentation born out of malice and lacking any factual or legal foundation.
A Legacy of Confronting Terrorism
The statement highlighted the apparent contradiction in the allegations, pointing to Buratai's career-long commitment to fighting insurgency. It recalled that under his leadership, the Nigerian Army made significant gains against terrorist groups.
Boko Haram and ISWAP were significantly degraded, territories were recovered, civil administration was restored, and displaced Nigerians returned to their homes during his tenure. The statement argued it defies logic to suggest the same leader who confronted these elements would be associated with them.
Buratai's current focus, according to the release, is on academic engagements, policy contributions, peace advocacy, and philanthropy aimed at national development. The statement concluded that his documented legacy of honourable service would not be diminished by unfounded narratives.
