A civic coalition known as the Concerned Defenders of National Consciousness and Integrity has condemned retired Major General Danjuma Ali-Keffi for what it describes as a reckless and unpardonable breach of Nigeria’s national security. In a statement issued in Abuja on December 6, the group accused the former senior officer of deliberately disclosing classified information relating to a covert security operation known as Operation Service Wide, saying his actions constitute a criminal violation of the Official Secrets Act and a betrayal of the oath he swore to uphold.
The group argued that the core issue is not the unproven allegations Ali-Keffi made against former service chiefs and government officials, but the dangerous method he employed by revealing sensitive operational details to the public. According to the coalition, the disclosure has compromised potential future operations, exposed methodologies, and endangered operatives, signalling a disregard for national interest. It described the act as one that tears open the veil of national security operations and weakens the country’s defence architecture.
The statement further claimed that Ali-Keffi’s actions were driven not by patriotism, as he suggested, but by personal bitterness over past career setbacks. It cited his removal as General Officer Commanding 1 Division in August 2021, his compulsory retirement from the Army in December of the same year, and his alleged frustration over an unsuccessful ambition to become Chief of Army Staff as evidence that his motive was rooted in grievance rather than national interest. The group said the retired officer’s conduct followed a dangerous pattern often seen in individuals who refuse to accept institutional authority and due process.
The coalition warned that Ali-Keffi’s decision to bypass established internal and legal channels and instead prosecute his claims in the media sets a troubling precedent for discipline within the military. It argued that such behaviour undermines public confidence in national institutions and could encourage future breaches of state secrets by officers seeking public sympathy or personal vindication.
The group called on the Federal Government to immediately initiate criminal proceedings against Ali-Keffi for violating the Official Secrets Act, insisting that the judiciary must send a clear message that safeguarding national security is a duty that cannot be compromised. It also urged the government and the armed forces to issue a firm public condemnation of his actions to reinforce the principles of discipline, loyalty, and respect for the chain of command. In addition, it reaffirmed its solidarity with past and present military leaders, saying attempts to smear their reputation distract from ongoing efforts to combat insecurity.
The statement concluded by stressing that Nigeria’s fight against terrorism demands unity, secrecy where necessary, and unwavering discipline. It said Ali-Keffi’s conduct has aided the enemies of the state by exposing sensitive operations, and warned that such actions must not be met with indifference. It called for justice to take its course, insisting that the country’s security is sacred and non-negotiable.
