Ex-army chief Faruk Yahaya takes legal action over defamatory allegations

Former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya (rtd), has taken formal legal action to defend his integrity following the circulation of allegedly false claims linking him to terrorism financiers.

This is contained in a statement by former Army Spokesman, retired Brig.-Gen. Sani Usman, on Wednesday in Abuja.

According to the statement, the allegations were made by Major General Danjuma Hamisu Ali-Keffi (rtd) during an interview with Arise News and further amplified by Sahara Reporters, prompting the retired officer to seek redress.

The statement said that demand notices were served on Major General Ali-Keffi, Arise News, and Sahara Reporters over the contents of the interviews, reports, and publications, described as defamatory.

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The notices, dated 17th December 2025, gave the recipients 72 hours to retract the allegations, issue unreserved public apologies, and immediately cease further publication or dissemination.

“Failure to comply will result in legal action,” the statement warned.

According to the statement, General Yahaya’s decision to pursue legal action is aimed not only at protecting his personal honour but also at discouraging the spread of unverified allegations capable of undermining public trust in national institutions.

It added that the retired officer remains committed to the rule of law, accountability, professionalism, and truth, and will not allow falsehoods driven by malice or personal grievances to go unchallenged.

Brigadier General Usman concluded that General Yahaya’s actions are intended to safeguard both his personal reputation and public confidence in those who have served the nation with distinction.