The Concerned Citizens of the North-East have issued a formal rebuttal to comments made by retired Major General Ali Keffi during a recent interview on Arise Television, describing his statements as “inaccurate, misleading and unbalanced.”
In the statement signed by Amb. Auwal Ahmad Umar, the group said its attention was drawn to “the several remarks made by Retired Major General Ali Keffi concerning the tenure of former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai (rtd.), which do not reflect the factual realities of that period.”
According to Umar, the intervention became necessary “to set the record straight and ensure Nigerians are not misled by selective narratives capable of distorting the achievements recorded under the leadership of General Buratai.”
“Buratai’s Achievements Remain Undeniable”
The group insisted that Lt. Gen. Buratai (rtd.) is “widely celebrated for his strategic leadership, patriotism and commitment to safeguarding Nigeria.” It listed several milestones attributed to his stewardship, noting that:
“Boko Haram terrorists were degraded and pushed out of numerous territories.”
“Significant breakthroughs were recorded against armed bandits in the North-West.”
“Security operations in the South-East restored relative stability.”
“Welfare, training, accommodation, promotions and discipline within the Nigerian Army improved markedly.”
“The modernisation of military equipment and infrastructure boosted operational readiness.”
“Civil–military relations and international defence cooperation reached unprecedented levels.”
“These are facts well known to Nigerians and independent observers,” the statement added.
Umar also referenced the traditional title Garkuwa Keffi (The Shield of Keffi), conferred on Buratai by the Emir of Keffi, describing it as “a powerful testament to his service, courage and impact on national security.”
“Ali Keffi Knows the Truth”
The group accused Maj. Gen. Keffi (rtd.) of deliberately refusing to acknowledge the achievements he witnessed firsthand while serving in senior positions under Buratai.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Major General Ali Keffi directly witnessed the reforms, operations and successes achieved under that administration,” the statement read. “His refusal to speak on these obvious facts raises serious questions about the intent and sincerity of his remarks.”
Motivated by Personal Dissatisfaction?
Umar suggested that the retired general’s comments may have been influenced by personal grievances linked to his exit from service.
“General Keffi’s retirement followed internal administrative and disciplinary procedures conducted strictly in accordance with military rules. Given this background, it is difficult to ignore the signs of personal dissatisfaction driving his public commentary,” he stated.
“Buratai’s Legacy Stands Firm”
The group maintained that Buratai remains “one of Nigeria’s most decorated and patriotic military leaders,” insisting that no single media appearance could diminish his track record.
“No interview—especially one characterised by omissions and personal sentiment—can erase the legacy of a man honoured across Nigeria as the ‘Shield of Keffi’,” the statement concluded.
Umar called on the public to “disregard attempts to misrepresent history” and continue supporting efforts aimed at strengthening national unity, peace and the integrity of the Armed Forces.
