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Former Chief of Army Staff and Nigeria’s ex-ambassador to Benin Republic, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (rtd), has firmly dismissed allegations that his convoy was ambushed by Boko Haram fighters in Borno State, calling the claims “fake news.”
The allegation surfaced when Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South in the National Assembly, stated during an appearance on Channels TV’s Politics Today on Sunday, June 8, 2025, that insurgents had launched an attack on Buratai’s convoy near a military front base.
Ndume painted a grim picture of the deteriorating security in northern Nigeria, claiming:
“We are in a dire security situation. Just two days ago, Buratai was attacked at the front operations base in Borno.
“His team responded gallantly, but the insurgents managed to destroy several military assets.”
According to the senator, Buratai was accompanied by military personnel during the ambush, which reportedly resulted in a heavy exchange of gunfire.
However, Buratai swiftly debunked the report through a statement issued by former Army spokesperson Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman (rtd), categorically stating that no such incident occurred.
“For the avoidance of doubt, he celebrated the Eid festivities peacefully in Abuja, in the company of family, friends, and well-wishers, and I have remained within the Federal Capital Territory since then,” the statement clarified.
Buratai further denounced the circulating story as baseless and a product of malicious intent.
“This baseless rumour is a product of the reckless imagination of the purveyors of fake news, individuals whose sole aim is to malign him, spread fear, confusion and misinformation.
The fabricators of these actions are not only mischievous but also deeply irresponsible and must be condemned in the strongest terms,” the statement read.
Expressing gratitude for the concern shown by the public, Buratai added:
“I sincerely extend my heartfelt and profound appreciation to the countless patriotic and well-meaning Nigerians, friends, associates and admirers…
“Your overwhelming show of love and support is deeply cherished and speaks volumes about the enduring respect and affection we are privileged to receive.”
He concluded with a caution to those spreading falsehoods:
“Let this serve as a reminder to the harbingers of fake news, that truth will always prevail.
“No amount of falsehood or malicious propaganda can tarnish the image of a man who has devoted his life to the service of our great nation.”