₦airaland Forum

‘They Targeted Me’: Retired Army General's Detention Ordeal, Alleged Assassination Plot Under Buhari Govt After Exposing Suspected Terrorism Financiers
December 5, 2025
NEWS

A retired senior officer of the Nigerian Army, Major General Danjuma Ali-Keffi, has narrated how he was forced out of service, detained in solitary confinement, and subjected to humiliating treatment after uncovering individuals he described as suspected financiers and sponsors of terrorism in Nigeria.

Ali-Keffi, who once commanded the Army’s 1 Division as General Officer Commanding (GOC), said his ordeal began shortly after he was appointed in 2021 to lead Operation Service Wide (OSW), a multi-agency investigative task force mandated to identify Boko Haram masterminds, expose their financial backers, and dismantle networks supporting the insurgency.

According to the retired General, he was handpicked during the Muhammadu Buhari administration to steer the sensitive operation.

He said OSW’s mandate included tracking the financial architecture sustaining Boko Haram and identifying high-profile individuals linked to the group.

However, rather than receiving institutional support, Ali-Keffi alleged that powerful interests moved against him once he began uncovering sensitive information.

64 Days In Solitary Confinement And Forced Retirement

Ali-Keffi said he was later arrested and detained for 64 days in solitary confinement, where he slept on the floor, resulting in what he described as serious health consequences.

He said this period of detention preceded the process that ultimately forced him out of the Nigerian Army.

“When I reported, they even stripped me of my shoes, belt, wrist watches and money,” he stated.

‘Presidency Told Me Not To Report To NARC’

The retired General narrated that during his initial interrogation, he was questioned about why he did not report to the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) after being removed as GOC on August 8, 2021.

He insisted that he followed instructions allegedly relayed from the Presidency, saying, “I responded that the Presidency told me not to report. The liaison between me and President Buhari told me that it was the former President’s directive. So, I complied for a while until I smelled a rat.”

Ali-Keffi said he believed former President Buhari was not genuinely committed to the counter-terrorism project he oversaw. He linked this to an earlier investigation he led in 2020 into 295 fuel-laden tankers smuggled into Benin Republic through Ilesa Baruba in Kwara State.

According to him, the findings from that investigation, which were submitted to the Presidency, placed Buhari in a difficult position. The report recommended that the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) trace individuals involved in terrorism financing, and Buhari publicly accepted these recommendations in February 2020.

Ali-Keffi said the NFIU later conducted extensive work, collaborating with 33 foreign financial intelligence agencies and securing documents such as a certified translated copy of the Dubai Judgment Report.

The NFIU reportedly submitted its findings directly to Buhari and recommended establishing Operation Service Wide (OSW) as an independent task force staffed by credible personnel from the military and intelligence agencies. He believed Buhari accepted this proposal reluctantly because the evidence presented by the NFIU made it difficult to reject.

As OSW proceeded, especially after the arrest of suspects linked to prominent Nigerians and the killing of Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau, which he attributed partly to OSW’s activities, resistance began to mount.

Ali-Keffi said he received intelligence suggesting that powerful individuals felt threatened and planned his elimination. He also claimed that these individuals deceived Buhari by alleging that he and the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, posed a threat to the administration.

He suggested that Attahiru’s death in the May 2021 military plane crash may have been connected to these tensions, although he acknowledged he could not prove this.

“I learned from credible intelligence sources, but I can’t prove this, that the powerful individuals who planned our elimination first lied to the President that Attahiru and I were a threat to his regime,” he said.

“Now, whether Buhari approved the elimination of Attahiru in the manner that he and the other nine passengers were killed in an aircraft explosion, I cannot say.”

He questioned the federal government’s reaction to the crash, noting that neither Buhari nor Vice President Yemi Osinbajo attended the funeral in Abuja the following day despite being in the city.

He contrasted this with the high-level attendance at the burial of the late General Lagbaja under the Tinubu administration, saying, “However, the absence of Buhari, his vice (Osinbajo) as well as a high powered FGN delegation at the funeral in Abuja the day after the incident, May 22, 2021, despite that they (Buhari and Osinbajo) were both in town indicated that something was amiss.

“Recall the burial of Late General Lagbaja. Not only was Tinubu and Shettima present but the leadership of NASS, the Judiciary and so many other prominent politicians were present.”

Ali-Keffi said he was informed that President Buhari would direct then-Minister of Defence, Gen. Salihi Magashi (rtd.), to instruct the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) to reverse his posting to NARC since he was on a presidential assignment. But when no action was taken, he grew suspicious.

Fearing for his life, he said he decided to turn himself in rather than rely on assurances from those he believed were involved in a plot against him.

Alleged Plot To Assassinate Him On Abuja–Kaduna Highway

He also stated that credible intelligence reached him indicating that a plan had been put in place to assassinate him on the Abuja–Kaduna highway, staged to appear as an attack by bandits.

“When nothing was forthcoming, and I got reliable information that the Presidency was part of the plot to ‘deal’ with me, I had to turn myself in,” he said.

“Furthermore, I received credible intelligence that a plan had been made to assassinate me along the Abuja-Kaduna highway and then to make it appear as a bandit attack, I knew that I couldn’t trust whatever Buhari or the Presidency were telling me. I believed that I was being set up.”

‘They Feared What Would Come To Light In Court’

While in detention, and later in retirement, Ali-Keffi said he learned that his persecution was linked to claims that he had not shown respect to the former Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya, while serving as GOC 1 Division.

He questioned why, if this was the case, he was not arrested immediately after his removal, but instead taken into custody two months later, on October 18, 2021, without being properly posted for jurisdiction.

The retired General further queried why due process was not followed, asking, “Why didn’t they follow due process before throwing me out of the Military by placing me on charge as well as court martial me?”

He contrasted his treatment with that of ex-Major Generals H.O. Otiki and U.M. Mohammed, who he said were charged and court-martialled for offences he considered “far less serious” than what he was accused of.

According to him, the failure to subject him to a proper legal process stemmed from fear that exposing details of OSW’s findings in court would damage the reputation of powerful individuals.

High-Profile Links To Terror Financing

Ali-Keffi insisted that he still does not know the actual offence for which he was targeted, arguing that his uncompromising stance and the sensitive information he uncovered during Operation Service Wide placed him at odds with influential figures.

“I don’t know the offence(s) that I committed. I believe that my uncompromising stance coupled with the information I had on some prominent individuals as a result of their links to some of the suspects led to my ordeal,” he said.

“They (powerful individuals) knew that they would be implicated if we proceeded with the operation (OSW) and more importantly, if we had arraigned the suspects in court.”

Al-Keffi’s 2023 Letter To Tinubu

In a letter dated June 21, 2023, retired Ali-Keffi informed President Bola Tinubu that he faced severe backlash following the success of OSW, the covert counter-terrorism task force he led.

He said OSW’s efforts to disrupt Boko Haram’s financing networks threatened powerful individuals in government, the military, and the Presidency, including a senior banker, who he believed were either benefiting from or collaborating with the criminal activities of the insurgents.

According to him, the dangers facing the task force were so significant that some OSW personnel considered the May 21, 2021 air crash that killed General Ibrahim Attahiru and others to be suspicious.

In his letter, he noted that after handing over command of 1 Division on August 10, 2021, Ali-Keffi went to the Presidential Villa to brief then-President Muhammadu Buhari on his redeployment.

Document
Ali-Keffi.pdf
He said Buhari instructed him to continue leading OSW and assured him that his posting to the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) would be amended so the assignment would not be affected.

He continued working with OSW based on this assurance and was later informed that the Minister of Defence had been directed to ensure the adjustment of his redeployment.

Ali-Keffi said he was shocked when, in mid-October 2021, he received an invitation from the Provost Marshal (Army) to appear for an investigation interview.

After notifying the Presidency and receiving reassurance, he honoured the invitation on October 18, accompanied by OSW’s legal adviser. That day, he was detained, stripped of personal items, and held in solitary confinement.

His detention lasted 64 days.

He described the experience as humiliating and traumatic. He said he slept mostly on the bare floor, underwent repeated interrogations, and was denied communication with his family, who were unaware of his location throughout his detention.

Despite presenting documents indicating that he was on a presidential assignment, investigators continued to question him, including seeking information about his bank accounts.

He said financial checks revealed nothing and that investigators then accused him of treason and undermining counter-terrorism operations.

As part of the investigation, four secretly recorded private phone calls between him and the Military Secretary (Army) were played back, although he insisted they contained nothing incriminating.

Ali-Keffi said the questioning demonstrated that the detention had nothing to do with his posting to NARC and that investigators appeared to be searching for evidence against him.

He stated that he was subjected to physical and psychological pressure and was denied medical treatment for an ENT condition until he collapsed and was hospitalised for three days in a prison medical facility.

On December 21, 2021, he was released and immediately handed a letter conveying his compulsory retirement from the Nigerian Army.

He said the manner of his exit, after more than 30 years of service and an unblemished career, including training at the Nigerian Defence Academy and the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, amounted to a humiliating dismissal despite carrying out a presidential directive.

He noted that he had previously served the army with distinction, attended various professional military courses, and represented Nigeria at international engagements, including serving as chief planner for the U.S.–Africa Land Forces Training Conference held in Abuja in April 2018.

“In my opinion, the OSW was closing in on the top government, military and other powerful officials who were either involved in TF of the BHT and other insurgents' or were benefitting from the criminality which were ongoing in the northern part of the country,” he said in his letter.

“The mistreatment that I received under the former administration was, in my opinion, to protect the criminal enterprise which BHT and other insurgents' groups represent.”

SaharaReporters

However, rather than receiving institutional support, Ali-Keffi alleged that powerful interests moved against him once he began uncovering sensitive information.

BH has made a lot of people imaginary hero

ALSO SEE

Terror Suspects, Alleged Financiers Were Linked To Powerful Nigerians Including Ex-AGF Malami, Former Army Chiefs, Others –Maj. Gen. Ali-Keffi (Rtd)
Dec 05, 2025

https://www.nairaland.com/8575502/terror-suspects-alleged-financiers-linked#137699605

He suggested that Attahiru’s death in the May 2021 military plane crash may have been connected to these tensions, although he acknowledged he could not prove this.

I read somewhere, RPG was used to shoot down the aircraft as it was approaching the runway during landing. Tinubu should seek for USA security and face this Islamabad 🔥📌💯.

Something was fishy about Attahirus crash


I think it has to do with Bandits in Kaduna...

Anguldi:
He suggested that Attahiru’s death in the May 2021 military plane crash may have been connected to these tensions, although he acknowledged he could not prove this.

I read somewhere, RPG was used to shoot down the aircraft as it was approaching the runway during landing. Tinubu should seek for USA security and face this Islamabad 🔥📌💯.

Tinubu accepting the USA's assistance, would be the smartest move, even to his political career; instead of the otherwise.

With the strong network the Sokoto caliphate has built over the years, even if Tinubu sits in Aso rock for the next 10 years, it may be very difficult for him to make a sustainable impact of eliminating the terrorists and also rescuing his people, whom the terrorists have almost surrounded.

Crushing the caliphate would be the best solution to all these.

Of course, Nigeria is an organized crime scene. All the past and present happenings confirms it.

OLAADEGBU:
Terror Suspects, Alleged Financiers Were Linked To Powerful Nigerians Including Ex-AGF Malami, Former Army Chiefs, Others –Maj. Gen. Ali-Keffi (Rtd)
Dec 05, 2025
https://www.nairaland.com/8575502/terror-suspects-alleged-financiers-linked#137699605

Cha! God why please?

Former AGF Malami Denies Terrorism Financing, Claims He Was Involved In 'Lawful Professional Engagements'
December 6, 2025
NEWS

Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, has formally rejected insinuations linking him to alleged terrorism financing.

In a detailed statement on Friday, Malami claimed that at no point in his public life — during or after his tenure — has he been summoned, questioned, targeted or investigated by any security, regulatory or intelligence authority in Nigeria or abroad in relation to terrorism financing.

“I state clearly and unequivocally that I have never at any time been accused, invited, interrogated, investigated or charged by any security, law-enforcement, regulatory or intelligence agency—within or outside Nigeria—in respect of terrorism financing or any related offence,” the former AGF asserted.

The retired military officer quoted in the report, according to Malami, only referenced that some unnamed terror suspects allegedly had “institutional” or “business” dealings with various persons, but did not conclude that such interactions amounted to direct or indirect support for terrorism.

“That important clarification was unfortunately overshadowed by a headline and framing capable of misleading well-meaning members of the public into drawing inaccurate and damaging conclusions,” he noted, accusing political adversaries of hijacking the narrative and deploying it for targeted smear operations.

“To suggest that lawful professional or institutional engagements can, without more, be read as evidence of terrorism financing is both mischievous and unjust,” he maintained.

“During my tenure, I worked with domestic and international partners to strengthen—not undermine—Nigeria’s anti-terror-financing regime. Any attempt to recast this as complicity is politically motivated and devoid of evidentiary basis,” he said.

“Public discourse must differentiate between verified intelligence and politically massaged narratives presented as investigative findings,” he cautioned.

EFCC had recently grilled Malami (SAN), over sundry issues after which he was granted bail.

Top sources revealed to SaharaReporters that Malami was in the EFCC custody on Friday and was almost going to spend the night because of the bail conditions given to him.

"Malami is in EFCC custody, he's looking for two permanent Secretary for bail conditions," one of the sources had revealed at that time.

"Update on Malami is that he got bail by providing two top level civil servants after interrogation yesterday (Friday)," another source informed last Saturday morning.

Earlier, the former AGF announced that he had been invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to provide clarification on "certain issues."

In a statement shared on his Facebook page last Friday, Malami had assured Nigerians that, as a law-abiding citizen, he was willing to comply with the commission’s invitation without hesitation.

“I am informing my family and friends that EFCC has invited me to clarify on some issues, and as a citizen of law and order and patriot, I am willing to honour this invitation without any hesitation,” he had stated.

“On this note, I am informing Nigerians of any development that will follow, so that everyone will be aware of what is going to go back to because of his current life and history."

Malami has faced allegations of corruption and abuse of office, but has not been formally charged.

SaharaReporters had in a series of reports exposed wide-ranging legitimacy issues, including non-execution of agreed contracts and backdoor deals raised against the indebtedness from various quarters.

One of the beneficiaries is one Dr Ted Iseghahi Edwards, who was indicted by the EFCC.

Documents seen by SaharaReporters showed that Edwards did not represent the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) as claimed.

A letter dated August 1, 2018, by former EFCC Chairman, Ibrahim Magu, to the Ministry of Justice/Attorney General Office, indicted him of an attempt to defraud the Nigerian government.

SaharaReporters gathered that despite the report, Malami persuaded then President Muhammadu Buhari to approve $159 million as legal fees to Edward. They also directed the DMO and the Ministry of Finance to release the promissory notes to Edward and others so that they could take their shares, a source had said.

SaharaReporters

In a detailed statement on Friday, Malami claimed that at no point in his public life — during or after his tenure — has he been summoned, questioned, targeted or investigated by any security, regulatory or intelligence authority in Nigeria or abroad in relation to terrorism financing.

Names Of Boko Haram Sponsors Exposed
Dr. Omoshola Deji


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prvCdoFclnw?si=7UxlmA4N7H6If9da

EXCLUSIVE: Intelligence Report Exposes Kidnapping, Bandit Syndicates Across Northern Nigeria
December 8, 2025
NEWS
EXCLUSIVE

A comprehensive investigation into the activities of kidnappers and bandits across northern Nigeria reveals a complex web of criminal operations involving suspected kingpins, collaborators, and potential connections with politically exposed persons.

The Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) findings, based on a September 2020 intelligence report, span the North-West and North-East regions and provide detailed insights into the identities, movements, and alleged activities of hundreds of suspects.

North-West Axis: Katsina, Zamfara, and Kaduna Under Siege

The report highlights the North-West as a hotspot for kidnapping and banditry, with Katsina, Zamfara, and Kaduna states heavily affected.

Several high-profile suspects were identified in the report.

According to the report, Samaila Ibrahim (aka Kachalla, Dan Antuna), 24, operating out of Kaduna and Katsina, was reportedly involved in the abduction of Abdullahi Carpenter along the Kaduna–Abuja Expressway.

He is suspected of sourcing weapons or drugs through an associate, “Iliya Kaya.”

Aliyu Abubakar Umar, aka Lalbi 1 and Laibi 2, 25, is linked to multiple kidnappers and is suspected to have connections with law enforcement collaborators and local political figures.

Aish Buhari, 35, allegedly communicates internationally with France and Ghana and has strong ties to the Lalbi network.

Nasiru Mani, aka Sada Lawal, 26, a suspected kidnapper in Katsina, reportedly coordinates with Ibrahim Umaru (Ardo Alti) and receives communications from the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN) at odd hours, suggesting possible logistical support for banditry operations.

Umar Sani (Uzairu), 83, maintains communications with suspected kidnappers at flashpoints across the North-West.

The report also identifies several suspected informants and logistics operators, including Ashiru Salisu, Shaaibu Sulaiman, and Sani Farouk, who allegedly provide critical support for abductions, ransom collection, and coordination across Katsina and Zamfara.

SaharaReporters

The Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) findings, based on a September 2020 intelligence report, span the North-West and North-East regions and provide detailed insights into the identities, movements, and alleged activities of hundreds of suspects.

Buhari Govt Was Unhappy With Killing Of Boko Haram Leader Shekau, Failed To Celebrate Victory –Retired General Ali-Keffi
December 9, 2025
NEWS

Retired Major General Danjuma Ali-Keffi, the former General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division and head of the covert Operation Service Wide (OSW), has alleged that the Muhammadu Buhari administration was displeased with his team’s success in eliminating Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau.

Ali-Keffi said the government’s response to Shekau’s death was notably muted, contrasting sharply with how the United States celebrated the killing of Osama Bin Laden by SEAL Team Six in Abottabad, Pakistan.

He noted that Shekau was a declared enemy of the state, notorious for his attempts to dismantle governmental influence in areas under Boko Haram’s control.

He said, “Crucially, the previous (Muhammadu Buhari) administration was unhappy with the Operation Service Wide after we got Shekau and that explains the refusal of the government to celebrate his death.

“Contrast this with how President Obama celebrated the killing of Osama Bin Laden, the former Al-Qaeda leader by the US SEAL in Abottabad, Pakistan.

“My perception. As I stated, Shekau was an avowed enemy of the state and he (Shekau) did not hide his disdain for the state and his desire to dismantle its influence in the areas that the Boko Haram carved out in their delusional caliphate.

“So, one would naturally have thought that the government would have come out to celebrate and claim credit for his demise. Furthermore, Shekau was at the top of the list given to OSW to either capture or eliminate. However, despite briefing the late Buhari of our success in ‘eliminating’ him, we did not receive even a well done.”

Ali-Keffi clarified that since OSW was a covert outfit, “so we weren’t expecting it to be done publicly but at least, privately”.

“Furthermore, the government subsequently pretended as if Shekau’s demise was not significant by not even making reference to his death as one of the administration’s achievements.”

“Contrast this with the elimination of Osama Bin Laden which the Obama administration still touts as one of its greatest accomplishments,” he added.

Ali-Keffi clarified that while Shekau was a prominent figure within Boko Haram, he was not the organisation’s topmost leader.

He said that international intelligence, including insights from the UAE and a key Western country, indicated that Alhaji Saidu Ahmed was the true leader and financial backbone of the group.

He explained the significance of Saidu’s arrest and subsequent release.

The detention of Alhaji Saidu severely weakened Boko Haram, contributing indirectly to Shekau’s death.

The disruption of the group’s finances and logistics forced many fighters and their families to surrender.

However, after Saidu’s release under what Ali-Keffi described as “questionable circumstances,” Boko Haram regained its strength, highlighting that Shekau’s death alone had not dealt a decisive blow.

“Shekau was a prominent figure of the organisation and for a long while, he was thought to be the number one until the UAE and a key Western country made us to understand otherwise,” he said.

Ali-Keffi’s comment regarding Saidu Ahmed confirms an exclusive reported recently done by SaharaReporters.

The report detailed information on a network of 20 Nigerian and three international individuals suspected of financing and facilitating terrorism, particularly linked to Boko Haram activities. Saidu Ahmed was the first name on the list.

Last Friday, SaharaReporters Alhaji Saidu Ahmed, also known as Alh Saidu or Alhaji Saidu Gold, born on July 6, 1961, is a Nigerian businessman residing in Zaria, Kaduna State.

Identified as a key financier of Boko Haram, he is connected to multiple associates and convicts through extensive financial transactions.

Investigation carried out by Nigeria revealed that his accounts had recorded inflows totalling N4.8 billion, with frequent cash withdrawals.

He is directly linked to convicts Surajo Abubakar Muhammad, Ibrahim Ali Alhassan, and Bashir Aliyu Yusuf, as noted in UAE court proceedings.

The retired general expressed frustration over the government’s lukewarm attitude towards the OSW immediately after Shekau’s death.

He also revealed that the former Director of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), Hamman-Tukur Modibbo, sought to hold a joint press conference to claim credit for the operation. Ali-Keffi refused, citing operational security risks that could expose infiltrated operatives and compromise ongoing missions.

Ali-Keffi noted that the OSW, initially slated to operate from October 2020 to April 2021, had its mandate extended until June 2022, with official approval of funds for the continuation.

However, he alleged that no funds were released to the unit in the six months following the extension, leaving him to personally finance operations.

He described the delay as “curious” for such a sensitive and costly operation.

“The former President also approved funds for the extension but up to the date that I was arrested, six months after, not a kobo was released to the OSW,” he said.

“Meanwhile, the late President Buhari had urged me to source funds. I was convinced with the approval on paper which I received sometime in May 2021. As of date, however, I have not been reimbursed for the money that I expended.”

“Is this not curious (delay in the release of funds) for such a sensitive and as expected, an expensive endeavour?” he asked.

The OSW, a specialised inter-agency unit focused on counter-terrorism, high-level intelligence gathering, and the disruption of terrorist financing networks, played a central role in the operation that led to Shekau’s demise.

Ali-Keffi credited the success largely to the intelligence and strategic planning of the late Brigadier General Abdulrahman Kuliya, who orchestrated efforts to pit Boko Haram and ISWAP against each other, triggering internal infighting that weakened Shekau’s faction.

SaharaReporters

Ali-Keffi said the government’s response to Shekau’s death was notably muted, contrasting sharply with how the United States celebrated the killing of Osama Bin Laden by SEAL Team Six in Abottabad, Pakistan.

EXCLUSIVE: Intelligence Report Exposes Nigerian, International Network Funding Boko Haram Through 1,801 Bank Accounts
December 9, 2025
NEWS

The Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) has mapped an extensive network of individuals, companies, and international affiliates linked to the financing and support of Boko Haram, revealing the complexity and reach of the group’s financial operations.

The NFIU’s report highlights the critical role of financial and logistical networks in sustaining Boko Haram’s operations.

According to the agency, terrorist groups depend on a wide array of resources to maintain their operational, organisational, and personal activities. Disrupting these networks is considered essential to safeguarding national security and protecting development initiatives.

Following presidential approval on January 10, 2020, the NFIU assumed full control over investigations into Boko Haram’s financing.

The unit analysed suspicious transaction reports from financial institutions, records of six Nigerians convicted in the United Arab Emirates for terrorism financing in 2019, and intelligence from the Nigerian Army and other law enforcement agencies.

In April 2017, six Nigerians were arrested in Dubai on charges related to money laundering and terrorist financing.

In 2019, the Abu Dhabi Federal Appeal Court convicted them of terrorist crimes and financing terrorist organisations outside the UAE under the country’s counter-terrorism laws, finding them to be members or agents of Boko Haram.

The sentences were as follows: Saluhu Yusuf Adamu, life imprisonment; Surajo Abubakar Muhammad, life imprisonment; Ibrahim Aliyu Alhassan, 10 years imprisonment; Abdurrahman Ado Musa, 10 years imprisonment; Bashir Aliyu Yusuf, 10 years imprisonment; and Muhammad Ibrahim Isa, 10 years imprisonment.

This marked a significant UAE legal action against individuals linked to Boko Haram operations abroad.

The analysis also incorporated open-source data, including United Nations Security Council reports and social media research, as well as information shared by foreign financial intelligence units in Germany, the Czech Republic, Rwanda, Benin, Cameroon, and Niger.

Individuals Linked to Financing Operations

The report identified ninety-six individuals connected to Boko Haram financing across Nigeria. These suspects operate in several key locations, including Abuja in the Federal Capital Territory, Yola in Adamawa, Maiduguri in Borno, Zaria in Kaduna, Kano, Ilorin in Kwara, Lagos, Sokoto, Gusau in Zamfara, and Niger State.

Kano accounted for the highest number of suspects, totalling 58 individuals.

Notable individuals mentioned include Ibrahim Mohammed, Umar Abubakar, Haruna Muhammad, Mustapha Sani, Sulaiman Sani, Faiza Salihu, Sumayya Ahmed Tata, Mohammed Sani Alison, Abubakar Sani, Sale Danladi Samaila, Rabiu Abdulmalik, Mustapha Adamu Musa, Aliyu Danladi Samaila, and numerous others identified across multiple regions of the country.

The investigation also revealed the involvement of numerous companies linked to these individuals. These include trading companies, general business enterprises, automobile service providers, mining companies, jewellers, and Bureau De Change (BDC) operations.

Companies directly owned by suspects include Yaura Bureau De Change Nigeria Limited, Mussa Emma Bureau De Change Limited, Alfa Exchange Bureau De Change Limited, Danwali Bureau De Change Limited, and Fankes Bureau De Change Limited. Other BDCs reportedly used by suspects include Amax Cash Bureau De Change Limited, Aminchi Global Commercial Bureau De Change Limited, Algaje Bureau De Change Limited, Kanari Bureau De Change Limited, and As Sunnah Bureau De Change Limited.

Local and international companies tied to the network also cover a broad spectrum of commercial activities. Prominent businesses include Abubakar Hamid International, Abubakar Zakari G. Enterprises, Al-Mustaqbal Enterprises, Amg Mining and Gems Store Limited, Anytime Money Enterprise, Bilkusu Jewelries General Enterprises, Dan Sambo Enterprises Nigeria Limited, Dafu Investment and Development Nigeria Limited, Golden Mushaj International, and Zeecall Communications Limited, among many others.

The network’s financial operations were traced through 1,801 bank accounts across 18 financial institutions, including Access Bank, Citibank, Diamond Bank, Eco Bank, FCMB, Fidelity Bank, First Bank, GTBank, Heritage Bank, Jaiz Bank, KeyStone Bank, Polaris Bank, Rand Merchant Bank, Stanbic IBTC, Sterling Bank, UBA, Union Bank, and Zenith Bank.

This account analysis allowed investigators to link individuals, companies, and the movement of funds that supported terrorist activities.

International Links and Affiliates

The NFIU’s findings reveal that the network extends beyond Nigeria’s borders.

Eighteen foreign individuals were identified as sponsors, financiers, or facilitators, with connections to countries including Rwanda, Niger, Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, India, Cameroon, Benin Republic, and Uganda.

Among the companies associated with these international actors are Nabil Mass Business Company in the UAE, Nury Salihu General Trading Company in the UAE, Kofar Ruwa Company in the UAE, Alfa Exchange, Desert Exchange, Eagle Square General Trading LLC in the UAE, and Vinayak Pharma Chem Equipment in India.

Connections to Kidnappers and Bandits

The report also established links between Boko Haram’s financing networks and known kidnappers and bandits. Identified individuals include Samaila Ibrahim, Ibrahim Ummaru, Aliyu Abubakar Umar, Bello Imran, Dadaki Sada Musa, Samaila Hamisu, Umar Sani, Ramada Soja, Yahaya Galadima, Garba Mohammed Gongola, Shiban Tikari, Adamu Barkindo, Ado Aliero, Dogo Gide, Babuga alias Mebuta Kmgt, Buhari Janar, and Alias Yelo Babuga.

Informants and law enforcement collaborators, including Ashiru Salisu, Hamisu Lawan Abubakar, Aliyu Muhammed, Musa Gobara, Adamu Bala, Alias Hamisu Mopol, Sule Nasiru Ringim, and Tijani Hussaini Dibal, were also noted, reflecting the complex interplay between criminal and terrorist activities.

Geographical Spread of Activities

The network operates across key Nigerian cities, with concentrated activity in Kano, and additional presence in Abuja, Lagos, Ilorin, Zaria, Maiduguri, Gusau, Sokoto, and Niger State.

Internationally, affiliates were identified in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai, India, Rwanda, Cameroon, Benin Republic, Niger, and Uganda.

The NFIU report underscores the strategic role of financial intelligence in dismantling terrorist networks. By identifying individuals, companies, financial institutions, and international affiliates involved in supporting Boko Haram, the report provides a critical roadmap for law enforcement and intelligence agencies to disrupt the funding mechanisms that sustain terrorist operations.

SaharaReporters

In April 2017, six Nigerians were arrested in Dubai on charges related to money laundering and terrorist financing.

OLAADEGBU:
Ali-Keffi said the government’s response to Shekau’s death was notably muted, contrasting sharply with how the United States celebrated the killing of Osama Bin Laden by SEAL Team Six in Abottabad, Pakistan.

Shekaku was killed ages before.

How do you expect the government to celebrate a ghost that can come back to life?

Former AGF Malami Detained Overnight As EFCC Probes 46 Bank Accounts
December 9, 2025
NEWS

Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), spent Monday night in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as investigators intensified questioning over a raft of high-profile financial transactions linked to his time in office.

SaharaReporters earlier reported that Malami was taken into custody on Monday evening and grilled by EFCC officials. By Monday night, Malami was reportedly working to meet bail conditions set by the EFCC.

Sources told SaharaReporters that Malami was searching for two permanent secretaries on Monday night to serve as sureties in order to fulfill the bail requirements for his release.

“EFCC arrested Abubakar Malami again; he was looking for two Permanent Secretaries for bail conditions on Monday night,” a source privy to the probe said.

According to an associate, who spoke to TheCable, Malami was invited for interrogation earlier on Monday but arrived late in the evening.

The report said investigators then opted to continue the session the following morning, compelling the former minister to remain overnight at the anti-graft agency’s headquarters in Abuja.

The associate further disclosed that no fewer than 46 bank accounts allegedly tied to Malami are now at the centre of the EFCC’s ongoing probe.

Meanwhile, Malami had earlier been grilled on November 29.

Following that session, he issued a statement on X describing the interrogation as successful while insisting that the allegations against him were fabricated.

“The engagement was successful, and I am eventually released while on an appointment for further engagement as the truth relating to the fabricated allegations against me continue to unfold,” he said.

But EFCC sources maintain that the current probe revisits a series of controversial deals that trailed Malami’s tenure under the Muhammadu Buhari administration.

In 2023, reports indicated that he would face questioning over at least five suspicious transactions.

Among the transactions now under renewed scrutiny is the mysterious $496 million payment to Global Steel Holdings Ltd (GSHL), which is the compensation for the termination of the Ajaokuta Steel concession, despite the company previously waiving its rights to any settlement.

Also in focus is Malami’s alleged role in the sale of multi-billion-naira assets forfeited to the EFCC, many of which reportedly ended up mired in opacity and conflicting valuations.

Investigators are also probing his involvement in the $419 million judgment debt awarded to consultants who claimed to have facilitated the Paris Club refund process, as well as the controversial approval of $200 million compensation to Sunrise Power in the disputed Mambilla power project contract.

Another matter being revisited is the alleged duplication of legal fees surrounding the transfer of $321 million of Abacha loot from Switzerland to Nigeria.

Malami dismissed allegations by the EFCC that he duplicated the recovery process for the $310 million Sani Abacha loot, which later accrued to $322.5 million with interest.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Mohammed Doka, following his visit to EFCC office on November 29, Malami described the EFCC’s claims as “baseless, illogical, and devoid of substance,” insisting that the accusations collapse under factual scrutiny.

He explained that the EFCC alleged he repeated a recovery process supposedly completed by Swiss lawyer Enrico Monfrini before he assumed office. Malami countered that the claim was unfounded, noting that no such recovery had been finalized prior to his appointment in 2015.

According to him, a recovery can only be deemed complete when funds are lodged into the Federation Account, adding that no such lodgement existed as of 2016.

Malami further disclosed that Monfrini himself applied in December 2016 to be re-engaged for the same recovery effort, which he argued was clear evidence that the EFCC’s narrative contradicts itself.

Despite the growing list of inquiries, Malami appears to be pushing forward with his political ambitions.

On November 17, he declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Kebbi State.

The former AGF had resigned from the APC in July before joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC), saying his defection followed wide consultations and deep personal reflection.

He claimed his departure from the ruling party was motivated by love for our nation and concern over worsening hardship across the country.

SaharaReporters

Sources told SaharaReporters that Malami was searching for two permanent secretaries on Monday night to serve as sureties in order to fulfill the bail requirements for his release.

Nigerian Chief Of Army Staff Attahiru Was Assassinated In May 2021 Plane Explosion, Not An Accident, Retired General Alleges
December 10, 2025
NEWS

A retired senior Nigerian Army officer, Major General Danjuma Ali-Keffi, has alleged that the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant-General Ibrahim Attahiru, was deliberately eliminated and did not die in an ordinary plane crash, as officially stated.

Ali-Keffi, who once served as General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division and headed the covert Operation Service Wide (OSW), alleged that Attahiru’s death occurred against a backdrop of internal hostility, operational sabotage, and high-level corruption within the military.

Lieutenant-General Attahiru and 10 other military personnel died on May 21, 2021, when an aircraft transporting them crashed near the runway of the Kaduna International Airport.

The other victims were Brigadier-General Mohammed Abdulkadir; Brigadier-General Olatunji Olayinka; Brigadier-General Abdulrahman Kuliya; Major Lawal Aliyu Hayat; Major Nura Hamza; Flight-Lieutenant Alfred Ayodeji Olufade; Flight-Lieutenant Taiwo Olufemi Asaniyi; Sergeant Umar Saidu; Sergeant Adesina Isaiah; and Aircraftman Oyedepo Matthew.

In his account, Ali-Keffi said he had compelling reasons to believe that the late COAS was targeted.

According to Ali-Keffi, his conversations with Attahiru began shortly after the latter assumed office as COAS in early February 2021. He said the Army chief confided in him about humiliating treatment he had received from a superior officer during the early years of the Buhari administration when he served as GOC 82 Division.

Ali-Keffi said Attahiru recounted how, as Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, he was personally blamed for the loss of a scorpion armoured personnel carrier following an attack on a battalion, despite the battalion being several command levels below him.

The APC was eventually recovered, but Attahiru interpreted the incident as part of a pattern of unjust targeting.

He also recalled Attahiru’s frustration after intelligence suggested Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau was hiding in Maiduguri.

The COAS informed a superior at Army Headquarters (AHQ) before acting, but said he received a surprised and incoherent response.

Shortly afterwards, AHQ sent him a directive, through unsecured channels, to capture or eliminate Shekau. By the time troops arrived, Shekau had fled, leading Attahiru to suspect he had been tipped off.

Ali-Keffi said, “⁠Gen Attahiru also narrated how as Theatre Commander, he had intelligence report indicating that Shekau was hiding in a location in Maiduguri.

“Being conscious of the fact that the Army Headquarters (AHQ) had effectively hijacked control of Operation Lafiya Dole, he called a superior at AHQ and informed him of the intel. He (Attahiru) said the reaction of the superior, as he could perceive from their WhatsApp audio conversations, was of shock and incoherence.

“He said the superior said he would call him back. To his surprise, a message was sent to him from AHQ in clear, not through a secured means of communication, that ‘Shekau had been located in Maiduguri and the TC was directed to capture or eliminate him.’

“Unsurprisingly, Shekau fled the location before the troops arrived which made Attahiru to suspect that he (Shekau) was tipped off. I nonetheless faulted Gen. Attahiru for not carrying out the raid before informing AHQ. I didn’t mention that, though, to Attahiru.”

“Perhaps, Attahiru wanted to impress the AHQ, hence, the reason for alerting AHQ first. In my fairly long stay in the military, I had long suspected that a great deal of operational plans and information were leaked from headquarters; the AHQ was not an exception,” he added.

Allegations of Sabotage, Corruption and Terror Financing

Ali-Keffi further stated that Attahiru disclosed troubling intelligence about one of his sector commanders allegedly paying Boko Haram fighters to avoid attacks.

The retired military officer said the late Attahiru described the sector commander as the “godson” of a powerful superior.

“Gen. Attahiru also told me that as TC, he once got intel report that one of his sector commanders, akin to GOC, was paying off the Boko Haram Terrorists in order that they should not attack his location,” he said.

He also recalled that Attahiru was dramatically removed from Operation Lafiya Dole, arrested, handcuffed and detained for weeks at the Special Investigation Bureau.

According to Ali-Keffi, it was the same facility where he himself would later be detained for 64 days.

According to him, Attahiru warned him to stay away from a particular retired senior officer whom he suspected of engaging in harmful or “diabolical” activities.

He said Attahiru frequently referred to this figure as “that man” and seemed to speak with a sense of dread whenever the individual’s name came up.

“Gen. Attahiru once warned me to be wary of a certain superior officer and I recall informing him (Attahiru) sometime in late February 2021 that the superior, who had retired at the time, had invited me to visit his private home,” he said.

“Gen. Attahiru ordered me not to go saying that the individual may harm me as he believed that the fellow was into diabolical activities. I didn’t go as ordered by the COAS.

“I recall that whenever he mentioned a certain retired superior military officer, his voice had an edge to it. He mostly referred to the fellow as ‘that man’ and never mentioned him by name. While I wouldn’t describe Attahiru’s actions in respect of the retired superior as being fearful of the chap, I could sense a sort of dread.”

At the time of his death, the COAS had reportedly ordered a forensic audit of funds and equipment in the Army and was expected to act on the findings on May 24, 2021, three days after the fatal incident.

Ali-Keffi said he wonders what became of that audit report.

⁠”The late Gen. Attahiru, as I was made later understand, had ordered an audit (forensic) of funds and equipment immediately he assumed command of the Nigerian Army as COAS.

“He was due to act on the report on Monday, May 24, 2021. He died in the suspicious plane mishap on May 21, 2021,” he said.

⁠As head of OSW, he said his team discovered large sums of counterterrorism funds being diverted into private pockets. He alleged that several of the terror financiers arrested were laundering money on behalf of senior military and government officials.

“At the OSW, we had observed massive amounts of funds meant for the counter terrorism campaign being diverted into private pockets. Some of the terrorism financiers that we arrested were laundering funds for some senior military and government officials that we suspected were illicit money, which was meant for counterterrorism,” he said.

“⁠Terrorism thrives not only from funding received from external sources but also when funds meant for counterterrorism are misappropriated.”

“The Aircraft Did Not Crash, It Exploded”

Ali-Keffi insisted that the aircraft carrying Attahiru and the other officers did not crash but exploded just above ground level as it attempted to land in Kaduna.

According to him, the bodies of the victims were found flung far from the point of the explosion, and the injuries on some suggested the blast occurred inside the cabin.

He cited the case of Major Nura Hamza, whose legs from the knees downward were “blown off,” and Brigadier-General Kuliya, who also suffered severe limb injuries.

In contrast, the pilots’ bodies reportedly showed no burns and remained strapped to their seats, something he attributed to the armoured door separating the cockpit from the cabin.

Ali-Keffi said he personally stayed with the corpses at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna, until 2 a.m. on May 22, observing their injuries firsthand.

“Furthermore, the nature of the injuries on some of the victims indicated that something exploded close to them,” he said.

“Additionally, the corpses of the two pilots were relatively intact, save for their faces which were darkened. They (pilots) were still strapped to their seats when we recovered their corpses. The apparent explanation for this was because of the armoured or steel door between the cockpit and the cabin area.”

He argued that examining the aircraft’s black boxes and exhuming the bodies to test for explosive residue could help establish the true cause of the incident.

Unreleased Report

The retired general questioned why, more than four years after the air disaster, the full report of the National Air Accident Investigation Board has not been made public. He said he believes only a preliminary report was issued and that crucial findings remain withheld.

According to him, these unresolved issues, combined with Attahiru’s conflicts with powerful figures, his ongoing audit, and evidence of widespread financial leaks in the counterterrorism system, support his belief that the late COAS did not die from an accident but was assassinated.

In September 2021, the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) submitted an interim report on the King Air 350 aircraft crash that claimed the lives of Lieutenant-General Ibrahim Attahiru and 10 others.

However, details of the report have yet to be made public.

SaharaReporters

Ali-Keffi, who once served as General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division and headed the covert Operation Service Wide (OSW), alleged that Attahiru’s death occurred against a backdrop of internal hostility, operational sabotage, and high-level corruption within the military.

OLAADEGBU:
However, rather than receiving institutional support, Ali-Keffi alleged that powerful interests moved against him once he began uncovering sensitive information.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRE5awZckbQ?si=s7pYBMusSUAx09U0

Former Aide Alleges Tinubu’s Defence Minister Matawalle Bought Vehicles, Gave Cash To Wanted Terrorists, Hid Arrested Bandit Leader
December 12, 2025
NEWS

A former Senior Special Assistant in the Zamfara State Government, Musa Muhammad Kamara, has accused Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence and former Zamfara governor, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, of buying vehicles, funding armed bandits, and shielding a notorious terrorist after his arrest.

Matawalle was appointed Minister of State for Defence by President Bola Tinubu in August 2023.

In a video obtained by SaharaReporters, Kamara, speaking in Hausa, detailed how vehicles and cash were allegedly distributed to wanted terror commanders including Kachalla Halilu, Bello Turji, and Ado Aleru during Matawalle’s tenure as governor.

Kamara said the allegations currently being debated in the media are “not false,” insisting that he personally handled some of the transactions.

He said, "Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Ta'ala Wabarakatuh. My name is Musa Muhammad Kamara, former SSA under the former Zamfara State Government of Dr. Bello Mutawalle of Maradun.

"This is the matter: there is a lot of talk, and even after the government changed, there was no place where it was said that I was dismissed or suspended until we left office. Now, I am seeing on the media that a petition is circulating against Malam Murtala Bello Assada, accusing him of insulting and defaming the Minister of Defence.”

"There are some clips I watched in which Malam Murtala Bello Assada was speaking. So, we see that there are accusations and counter-accusations. This thing is not false," he said.

‘Vehicles Were Bought And Given To Bandit Leaders’

According to Kamara, vehicles were purchased under the instructions of the former governor and delivered to the notorious warlords.

"There is a clip I saw where the Mallam said that vehicles were bought. Wallahi, Summan Tallahi Billahi, vehicles were bought and distributed. Vehicles were given to Kachalla Halilu, Turji, Ado Aleru; those motorcycles were truly bought and given out.

"There is another clip I saw again recently that they were “settled”, given money. Truly. I, Musa Kamara, was among those who were given that settlement."

He further alleged that large sums of money were disbursed to bandit groups across all 14 local government areas of Zamfara State.

“This bank settlement record shows all 14 local governments of Zamfara State and their names. There is none of them that did not receive ₦3 million. When the money was added, it totalled ₦42 million, and it entered my account as a settlement of ₦28,020. Each local government I know received its amount, and the money was also given to the youths."

How A Terror Commander Was Allegedly Hidden After Arrest

Kamara also referenced a separate incident involving Haru Dole, a notorious terror leader said to possess “over 500 AK-47 rifles.”

He claimed Haru Dole was arrested at Gusau Hospital by security operatives and taken to Abuja.

"Malam Murtala also spoke in a clip about the arrest of Haru Dole. Haru Dole, one of the top bandits, who had 500 AK-47s. He was arrested by SCS at the Gwasso hospital. They arrested him and took him to Abuja, to the office of Illa Muradi.”

"From SCS, he was handed over to Illa Muradi’s office. Matawalle sent his aide, Dr. Bashir Maru, to the hospital to take the man and hide him, and that was done," he alleged.

‘I Handled Purchase Of House Given To Bandit Leader, Turji’

The former SSA also stated that he personally handled the purchase and renovation of a house allegedly gifted to terror kingpin Bello Turji.

He said, "Malam Murtala also spoke about the house that was bought for Turji. Billahi, Allazi La Ilaha Illa Hu; a house was bought. I was the one who bought the house. Someone began building it but abandoned it. They came and said I should talk to his younger brother, and I saw a small man with an elephant statue in Fakai town. The house was bought, completed, and handed over."

"These things we are seeing, some people are denying them, but everything that was done, I know. Even though I have no close relationship with Malam Murtala, some of these things are true," he said.

₦88 Million For Cows Allegedly Diverted And Stolen

Kamara added that he was entrusted with ₦88 million to purchase cows meant for distribution to residents during Sallah.

He claimed the cows were bought and delivered, but many were later stolen or diverted.

"For example, Malam Murtala said cows were bought and stolen. Wallahi, Summatallahi, I, Musa, was given ₦88 million to give to Kachalla Halilu and Kachalla Turji. I took the money to them for buying cows. The cows were bought at ₦140,000, and we were given ₦50,000 each as logistics.

"He told us to use ₦10,000 each for transport when bringing the cows. The cows were bought under a contract; they were to be shared to the people of Zamfara State for Sallah.

"I delivered the cows. One of the owners of the cows stolen from him saw me. Alamm Bakaura followed with his cows from Tsatsa to Batsari, and he followed his cows. I called the governor and he told me to buy him his cows. I brought the cows to the Commissioner for Security during Abubakar Daura’s time. They said the cows were for a ceremony. They were taken to Ruƙayya in Maradun.

"Everyone who came forward received those cows. These things truly happened."

I Will Go To Court; I Have Evidence

Kamara appealed to Malam Murtala Bello Assada, the whistleblower currently facing threats and petitions, to stand with him as a primary witness.

He said, "That is why I want to confirm that the allegations being made are true. I beg Malam Murtala Assada, for Allah’s sake, to support me as a primary witness because I will go to court and I will speak the truth; what I know, even what Malam Murtala does not know. I will come with my evidence and prove to the court what actually happened.

"I swear by Allah’s law, there are things that people do not know, and I will reveal them in court. The Mallam himself does not know some of them. I will say them because this has now reached the stage where justice must be done for the people."

He insisted that the revelations are necessary to ensure justice for the people of Zamfara State.

SaharaReporters

Matawalle was appointed Minister of State for Defence by President Bola Tinubu in August 2023.

EXCLUSIVE: Retired General Alleges Malami, Yahaya Colluded To Free 48 Terrorism Suspects, Links Top Military, Govt Officials To Money Laundering
December 15, 2025
NEWS
EXCLUSIVE

Retired Nigerian Army Major General Danjuma Hamisu Ali-Keffi, who was appointed in October 2020 by the late President Muhammadu Buhari to head a covert Presidential Task Force, Operation Service Wide (OSW), has raised serious allegations concerning the release of terrorism financing suspects while they were under military custody.

OSW, composed of personnel from the military, security and intelligence agencies, as well as legal officers from the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, was tasked with arresting, investigating, and prosecuting financiers, sponsors, and collaborators of terrorist organisations, as well as capturing or eliminating terrorist leaders.

In an exclusive interview with SaharaReporters, Ali-Keffi lamented the release of all terrorism financing suspects in Army custody.

According to him, it occurred under “suspicious circumstances.”

He alleged that former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Farouk Yahaya (retd.), allegedly influenced by former Army Chief Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), orchestrated his exit from the Army to facilitate the release.

“All the terrorism financing suspects in the custody of the Army were released under suspicious circumstances. Thus, it could be safely deduced that General Yahaya, under the prompting of General Buratai set me up in order to get me out of the Army to pave way for the release of the suspects to cover up their links to some of the terror suspects,” he said.

“It is an open secret that General Buratai influenced the appointment of General Yahaya as the Army Chief following the death of General Attahiru as he wielded considerable influence in the Buhari administration.”

Ali-Keffi also implicated the Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), in the alleged release, noting that his office would normally guide investigations and advise on the release of suspects only if insufficient evidence existed.

Ali-Keffi suggested that Malami’s “cooperation” was necessary for the suspects to be freed illegally, given his alleged connections to some of the suspects.

He said, “This is because the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice which Mr Malami headed were expected to guide the investigators in preparing evidences against the suspects with a view to prosecuting them in court.

“Similarly, it was his (Mr Malami’s) duty to also advise the Commander OSW to recommend to the former president to release a suspect if there is insufficient evidence to prosecute a suspect on either terrorism financing or money laundering charge.

“So, Mr Malami’s cooperation would be needed for any ‘illegal’ activity to occur in respect of the suspects’ release.

“Considering that Mr Malami was also linked to some of the suspects, it makes logical sense to assume that he cooperated with General Yahaya to free the suspects in the manner that was done in order to protect their reputation: any allegation of links to terrorism financing carries grave consequences for any individual not to talk a high government or military official.”

“So, it is improbable that the suspects would have been released by the Army without the knowledge and agreement of Mr Malami,” he added.

The retired general further raised concerns over the misappropriation of funds intended for counterterrorism operations.

He alleged that billions of dollars spent on Nigeria’s counterinsurgency efforts since 2010 yielded minimal results, largely due to alleged diversion of funds by senior military and government officials.

He said, “It should also be noted that Nigeria has expended several billions of dollars since the insurgency started sometime around 2010 but with very little results to show.

“It is generally believed that most of the money meant for the counterterrorism and counterinsurgency efforts are diverted into private pockets. In order words, enormous sums are stolen and some military top brasses in collusion with senior government and political figures are behind this misappropriation of funds meant for the counterinsurgency campaign.

“The NFIU as part of the OSW observed huge sums of money being laundered by some of the terrorism financing suspects on behalf of senior government and military officials; a number of the suspects operate bureau de change - money exchange- as a front for their more deadly crimes, which is, terrorism financing.”

“As I have come to understand in the course of the OSW project, misapplication of funds meant for counterterrorism is as bad as financing terrorism: they are both major enablers of terrorism,” he added.

Ali-Keffi also referenced a forensic audit reportedly ordered by the late Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, which was set to be signed on May 24, 2021, three days after Attahiru’s death.

He suggested that the audit could have uncovered the alleged misappropriation of funds, hinting at the possibility that the sabotage of Attahiru’s aircraft may be linked to those findings.

According to Ali-Keffi, OSW had amassed overwhelming evidence against 48 terrorism financing suspects, much of it sourced from the United Arab Emirates and Western intelligence agencies.

He described the release of all suspects without even money laundering convictions as unbelievable, arguing that only a thorough investigation into OSW could uncover the truth.

He said, “The OSW had overwhelming evidence against each of the 48 terrorism financing suspects in the custody of the Army. A lot of the evidence were provided by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as well as through collaboration with Western intelligence agencies.

“Therefore, for the entire suspects to walk away free was simply beyond belief. There must have been compromise for the suspects to get away without even money laundering convictions slammed on them.”

“Only a thorough investigation of the OSW will reveal the truth regarding the freeing of the suspects,” he added.

SaharaReporters

OSW, composed of personnel from the military, security and intelligence agencies, as well as legal officers from the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, was tasked with arresting, investigating, and prosecuting financiers, sponsors, and collaborators of terrorist organisations, as well as capturing or eliminating terrorist leaders.

Powerful people in government like Malami and matawalle. APC to the world!

Ex-General Demands Probe Into Release Of 48 Terrorism Financing Suspects In Nigeria, Including ‘Boko Haram Leader’
January 21, 2026
NEWS

A retired Nigerian Army Major General, Danjuma Hamisu Ali-Keffi, has called for a full probe into the release of 48 terrorism financing suspects, including an individual identified by foreign intelligence agencies as a Boko Haram leader, who were previously held in military custody.

Ali-Keffi was appointed in October 2020 by the late President Muhammadu Buhari to lead the covert Operation Service Wide (OSW) tasked with investigating terrorism financiers and collaborators.

The task force comprised personnel from the military, security and intelligence agencies, as well as legal officers from the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation.

SaharaReporters learnt that OSW collaborated with about 33 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union, under the cover of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU).

In an exclusive interview with SaharaReporters, Ali-Keffi said the National Assembly (NASS) has not taken up the matter due to alleged compromise by a former army chief.

In a previous interview, Ali-Keffi disclosed that 48 individuals identified as terrorism financiers were arrested, including a person described as a principal Boko Haram leader identified by Western and Middle Eastern intelligence agencies.

“A significant amount of the huge funds meant for counterterrorism were shared amongst prominent military and government officials including NASS members and others,” he said.

“Putting the terrorism financing suspects on trial would have exposed the misappropriation of these counterterrorism funds and all the beneficiaries. That is why nothing has been done.”

The retired general revealed that the NFIU under OSW traced huge sums of money intended for counterterrorism being diverted through some arrested terrorism financing suspects who operated Bureau De Change (BDCs) as fronts.

“These funds were laundered on behalf of top military and government officials,” he added. “We should not forget that these same terrorism financing suspects also moved funds for Boko Haram operations.”

Ali-Keffi asked, “First, who ordered the release of the 48 terror financing suspects, including the individual identified by Western and Middle Eastern intelligence agencies as the leader of Boko Haram, held in military (Nigerian Army) custody? All those who played a part should be identified.”

“Secondly, why were they released without being put on trial?” he also asked.

Ali-Keffi questioned why these suspects were released without trial, particularly Hima Abubakar, whose $600 million account was traced by the NFIU to an overseas offshore account.

“Thirdly, why did the government request the US to unfreeze the $600m of Hima Abubakar that was traced by the NFIU to an overseas offshore account?” he asked.

“It should be noted that Hima had been declared wanted by the (Nigerian) government and even the Nigerien government for terrorism financing.

“Also, it should be recalled that at the beginning of the Buhari administration, an arms probe, Committee on Defence and Arms Procurement (CADEP) was set up and it indicted Hima Abubakar for several misdemeanours relating to arms/ equipment procurement.”

“So, why did we request the US to unfreeze his account after the CADEP had found him liable (of owing the country a huge amount of money, well over $600m)?” he further asked.

He also raised concerns over the release of Alhaji Saidu Ahmed, also known as Saidu Gold, identified as a top Boko Haram leader.

“It is laughable that Alhaji Saidu Ahmed alias Saidu Gold who was identified as a top leader of Boko Haram was released from Army detention and allowed to walk free despite the abundance of evidence that the OSW had,” he said.

“Let us recall that the UAE intelligence, as stated in the Dubai Judgment Papers, had shown that Saidu Gold recruited all the six individuals jailed in Dubai, some for life. Yet, for some insane reasons, we didn’t even put him on trial. Again, to me, it showed that some persons at the highest decision-making level decided that the suspects should be released so as to cover their tracks.”

“There are many questions begging for answers,” he added.

Suspicious Circumstances Around Audit Suppression

The retired general also recalled that the late Chief of Army Staff Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, before his death in a suspicious air crash, had set up a forensic audit of counterterrorism funds and other military procurement monies that were never procured.

“He died three days before he was to act on the report,” Ali-Keffi said, adding that the suppression of this audit was part of a wider pattern to conceal the diversion of funds.

Ali-Keffi called for a thorough investigation into the handling of terrorism financing suspects and the funds meant for counterterrorism.

“If the NFIU under OSW should ever make its investigations public, I can assure you there will be a tsunami in Nigeria. Many military and government officials, including distinguished NASS members, would be implicated,” he said.

SaharaReporters

Ali-Keffi was appointed in October 2020 by the late President Muhammadu Buhari to lead the covert Operation Service Wide (OSW) tasked with investigating terrorism financiers and collaborators.

Court Grants Bail To Bauchi Commissioner, Others Accused Of Terrorism Financing Involving ₦400million
January 21, 2026
NEWS

The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Wednesday granted bail to the Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance, Yakubu Adamu, and three civil servants accused of complicity in terrorism financing involving ₦400million.

Justice Mohammed Umar, who took over the case file, ordered each defendant to deposit ₦100million and produce two sureties — one must be a serving permanent secretary, the other a serving director in the civil service.

The defendants were also directed to surrender their international passports, remain in Nigeria, and report weekly to the Bauchi office of the Department of State Services (DSS).

The ruling marks a sharp departure from an earlier decision by Justice Emeka Nwite, who in June 2025 rejected their bail application, citing national security concerns.

Justice Nwite had warned that terrorism-related offences posed a threat to social order and that releasing the accused could endanger the public.

Adamu, a former branch manager of Polaris Bank in Bauchi, was arraigned on December 31, 2025 alongside civil servants Balarabe Abdullahi Ilelah, Aminu Mohammed Bose, and Kabiru Yahaya Mohammed.

They face a 10-count charge bordering on conspiracy, conversion of public funds, and terrorism financing under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

The Nigerian government alleged that between January and May 2024, Adamu and his co-defendants — acting as signatories to Bauchi State government accounts — handed over $2.3 million in cash to Bello Bodejo, President of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, and his associates.

Bodejo was previously arrested after unveiling a vigilante group in Nasarawa State and accused of establishing an ethnic militia.

Though charges against him were withdrawn in May 2024, prosecutors now claim Bauchi officials illegally funneled funds to him with the approval of Governor Bala Mohammed.

Court filings allege that the defendants conducted transactions worth $9.7 million outside the banking system.

One count specifically accuses Adamu of receiving $6.95 million in cash in violation of money laundering laws.

The Bauchi State Accountant-General, Sirajo Jaja, named in the charge sheet, is reportedly on the run. Prosecutors insist the defendants knew the funds would be used to finance terrorism.

Despite pleading not guilty, the accused begged the court for bail, which Justice Umar granted, ruling that the prosecution failed to prove they posed a flight risk.

The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/705/2025, has been adjourned to March 26, 2026 for hearing.

SaharaReporters

Justice Mohammed Umar, who took over the case file, ordered each defendant to deposit ₦100million and produce two sureties — one must be a serving permanent secretary, the other a serving director in the civil service.