A self-proclaimed new leader of Boko Haram, adopting the notorious alias “Shekau,” has released a chilling video in which he threatens Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, as well as Muslim clerics, security forces, and communities aligned with the government’s anti-terror campaign.
The threats follow General Musa’s recent remarks, made in Hausa, vowing that terrorists would either surrender or be crushed by the Nigerian military.
In the video, translated by PRNigeria, the insurgent warned:
“This message is for General Christopher Musa. Repent and abandon your mission. Like those before you—Buratai, Attahiru, Lagbaja—you will fail. You will regret your actions against us. There will be no peace until democracy is dismantled.”
He declared all military personnel, regardless of faith, as enemies:
“Any soldier defending democracy is our enemy. Even if you’re a Muslim, wearing that uniform makes you one of them, and we will fight you.”
Attempting to sow discontent within the military, he described service in the armed forces as a “thankless job,” urging soldiers to defect:
“You can barely feed your families. Leave that job and join us.”
The insurgent also lashed out at Muslim scholars opposing Boko Haram’s ideology:
“To the clerics calling us infidels—be warned. If you choose not to support us, that’s your choice. But if you slander us, we will come for you.”
Further threats were extended to civilians and traders supporting the military:
“Anyone aiding the government forces is a legitimate target. Supporting democracy makes you an unbeliever.”
Rising Alarm Over Boko Haram Propaganda
Security analysts view the video as a propaganda tool aimed at psychological warfare—undermining morale, sowing fear, and weakening cooperation between communities and the military.
“This is classic Boko Haram psychological tactics,” said a military source involved in counterterrorism efforts.
“They want to create fear, disunity, and doubt among civilians and within the armed forces.”
While the Nigerian military has yet to issue an official response, past commanders have often dismissed such broadcasts as signs of Boko Haram’s desperation rather than strength.
General Musa earlier reaffirmed the military’s resolve:
“These terrorists will either surrender or be neutralized. There is no middle ground.”