Retired Lieutenant-General Faruk Yahaya, former Chief of Army Staff, has firmly denied allegations linking him to terrorism financing, describing the claims as false and damaging to his reputation.
The accusations, made by retired Major-General Danjuma Ali-Keffi and reported by Sahara Reporters, suggested that Yahaya had connections with individuals involved in financing terrorist activities.
However, Yahaya’s spokesperson, retired Brigadier-General Sani Usman, dismissed the report as “spurious, baseless, and entirely untrue.”
“At no point in his career, before, during, or after serving as Chief of Army Staff, did Lt.-Gen. Yahaya have any association—direct or indirect with individuals engaged in terrorism or activities undermining national security,” the statement read.
Yahaya attributed the allegations to a personal vendetta by Ali-Keffi, claiming it stemmed from disciplinary actions taken against him during his service.
He also criticised Sahara Reporters for publishing the claims without proper verification, calling it “irresponsible journalism” that undermines public trust.
The former army chief demanded an immediate retraction from Ali-Keffi and Sahara Reporters and warned that failure to comply would prompt legal action to safeguard his name and legacy.
“These allegations contradict Gen. Yahaya’s longstanding record of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to Nigeria’s defence,” the statement emphasized.
Yahaya reiterated his dedication to the country’s fight against terrorism, urging that national security efforts be guided by truth and patriotism rather than personal grievances.
This development adds to ongoing debates on accountability and the need for responsible reporting in matters relating to national security.
