Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai, retired, has filed a N1 billion defamation lawsuit against fellow retired officer, Maj. Gen. Danjuma Hamisu Ali-Keffi, at the Kaduna State High Court, alleging false claims linking him to terrorism
The suit, filed on January 8, 2026, at the Kaduna Judicial Division, alleges that Ali-Keffi made and circulated statements claiming that Buratai was involved in terrorism financing, had connections with Boko Haram suspects, and participated in the illegal release or concealment of terror suspects during his tenure as COAS.
Buratai’s legal team, A.I. Aliyu and A.M. Hassan of Law Plus Consult, stated that the claims were widely shared on social media platforms including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), WhatsApp, Instagram, and other online outlets, reaching both national and international audiences and causing severe damage to his reputation.
Court documents indicate that Buratai denies all allegations, asserting he has never been investigated, indicted, or convicted for terrorism-related offences. He described the claims as portraying him as corrupt, unpatriotic, and complicit in acts against Nigeria’s national security.
The former army chief is seeking a court order compelling Ali-Keffi to retract the statements and issue a public apology on the platforms where they appeared, including Sahara Reporters and at least two national newspapers.
In addition, Buratai is requesting N1 billion in general damages, a perpetual injunction barring further publication of the statements, and coverage of all legal costs. The writ requires Ali-Keffi to enter an appearance within 21 days of service, with the court empowered to proceed in his absence if he fails to respond.
As of filing, no hearing date had been scheduled, and Ali-Keffi had not yet filed a response.
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