Buratai sues retired General for N1bn over alleged defamatory terrorism claims
Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai (retd.), has instituted a N1 billion defamation suit against a fellow retired senior military officer, Maj. Gen. Danjuma Hamisu Ali-Keffi (retd.), at the Kaduna State High Court.
Court documents indicate that Buratai is seeking damages over alleged defamatory statements purportedly made by Ali-Keffi, which reportedly linked him to issues bordering on terrorism-related allegations. The former army chief described the claims as false, malicious, and injurious to his reputation, personal integrity, and years of military service to the nation.
Buratai is also asking the court for a declaration that the statements are defamatory, alongside an order restraining the defendant from making or publishing further similar allegations against him.
The suit marks a rare public legal confrontation between two high-ranking retired military officers and has generated significant public interest, given Buratai’s prominent role in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operations during his tenure as Chief of Army Staff.
As of the time of filing this report, Maj. Gen. Ali-Keffi (retd.) has not publicly responded to the lawsuit. The case is expected to come up for hearing at a later date.
