Sifawa Devt Forum Denounces Allegations Against Former Army Chief, Faruk Yahaya

Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

In a sharply worded press conference held at the Nigerian Union of Journalists Secretariat yesterday, the Sifawa Development Forum (SDF) condemned a growing campaign of “calumny” targeting former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Faruk Yahaya, who has been accused in some online videos and media reports of financing terrorism.

Dr. Abubakar Boyi Sifawa, president of the forum, described the accusations as “distorted videos, malicious commentaries and fabricated reports” that are being circulated by individuals and amplified by certain media platforms. “General Yahaya has built a good reputation in the military, rising to the rank of Chief of Army Staff, and nothing can destroy what he has built,” he told journalists.

Sifawa emphasised that the Nigerian Army is an institution founded on discipline, established procedures, merit‑based progression and constitutional responsibility principles that have guided Lt. General Yahaya throughout a career spanning more than half his life.

He recalled Yahaya’s ascension from garrison commander to the nation’s top soldier, noting a “remarkable achievement” as theatre commander when he oversaw the elimination of Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau.

The forum also highlighted Yahaya’s role as a mentor to a generation of senior officers, including former Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa, late Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, and the current Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede. “The exceptional career and integrity of General Yahaya remain unquestionable,” Sifawa said.

In a direct appeal to those spreading the allegations, Sifawa warned: “We urge the purveyors of this heinous act to retract themselves or face legal actions.”

He called for responsible journalism and reminded the public that the Nigerian Army’s reputation rests on professionalism and adherence to the rule of law.

He reaffirmed the forum’s support for Yahaya, whose record, according to the SDF, speaks for itself.