Retired Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai, has dismissed as false the reports circulating on several online platforms that his convoy was attacked by Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State.
In a statement released on Monday, his media aide, Brigadier General Sani Usman Kukasheka (Rtd), described the report as fake news designed to mislead the public and damage the reputation of the former Nigerian Army chief.
According to Kukasheka, General Buratai was in Abuja at the time of the alleged Boko Haram attack and had been celebrating the Eid al-Fitr holiday with family, friends, and well-wishers.
“For the avoidance of doubt, His Excellency Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd), CFR, Betara of Biu, Garkuwan Keffi, was not attacked in any way as falsely reported by some online media outlets,” the statement read.
The false claim, which quickly spread across social media and online news blogs in Nigeria, has been labelled a deliberate attempt to sow confusion and misinformation.
The statement called the report a “reckless fabrication” aimed at maligning the image of a man who has served Nigeria with honour both as Army Chief and as Ambassador to the Republic of Benin.
Brigadier General Kukasheka expressed strong disapproval of the disinformation, describing the originators as irresponsible and malicious actors. He urged Nigerians to disregard the story and instead focus on verified and credible news sources.
“I sincerely thank all patriotic and well-meaning Nigerians who reached out with genuine concern and goodwill. Your support means a lot and underscores the respect General Buratai continues to enjoy nationwide,” the statement added.
The media aide concluded by warning fake news peddlers that the truth will always prevail. He reaffirmed that no amount of falsehood can tarnish the legacy of General Tukur Buratai, whose commitment to national service remains undisputed.
