Retired Lieutenant General Farouk Yahaya has firmly dismissed allegations linking him to terrorism financing, describing the claims as baseless and malicious attempts to damage his reputation and distinguished military career.
The allegations, published by Sahara Reporters and attributed to retired Major General Danjuma Ali-Keffi, suggested that the former Chief of Army Staff had connections with individuals allegedly involved in financing terrorist activities. The publication mentioned Yahaya alongside other persons in relation to purported ties with suspected terror financiers and individuals described as security threats.
Responding through a statement issued Saturday in Abuja by retired Brigadier General Sani Usman, Yahaya categorically denied any association with terrorism financing or activities that could compromise national security. The statement emphasized that throughout his military career—before, during, and after his tenure as Chief of Army Staff—he maintained no direct or indirect links with anyone involved in such activities.
The former Army chief characterized the allegations as spurious and entirely without factual foundation, asserting that they contradict his impeccable service record and lifelong dedication to defending Nigeria. He accused Ali-Keffi of waging a personal vendetta motivated by disciplinary actions taken against him during his service years, suggesting the allegations stem from personal grievances rather than legitimate concerns.
Yahaya also criticized Sahara Reporters for publishing the claims without proper verification, describing the decision as irresponsible journalism that undermines public trust. He argued that media outlets have a duty to fact-check serious allegations, particularly those involving national security matters and the reputations of individuals who have served the country.
The statement highlighted Yahaya’s professional integrity and commitment to Nigeria’s security architecture, noting that his military service was marked by dedication to combating terrorism and protecting citizens. His tenure as Chief of Army Staff involved leading operations against insurgent groups and working to strengthen the military’s capacity to address security challenges across the country.
Demanding immediate retractions from Ali-Keffi, Sahara Reporters, and anyone circulating the report, Yahaya warned that failure to comply would result in legal action to protect his name and reputation. He made clear his readiness to pursue all available legal remedies to address what he considers defamatory and damaging false accusations.
The retired general reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s ongoing fight against terrorism, stressing that national security efforts require responsibility, patriotism, and truth rather than propaganda driven by personal grudges. He emphasized that false allegations distract from genuine security concerns and undermine the credibility of those working to keep Nigeria safe.
