A man claiming to be the new leader of the Boko Haram terrorist group has surfaced in a disturbing propaganda video, adopting the notorious name “Shekau” and issuing direct threats to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa.
The threats extend to military personnel, Muslim clerics, and local communities seen as cooperating with the Nigerian government’s counter-insurgency efforts.
The video, released in Hausa and translated by PRNigeria, appears to be a reaction to General Musa’s recent warning also delivered in Hausa that Boko Haram insurgents must either surrender or face decisive military action.
A Direct Challenge to Military Authority
In the footage, the militant leader boldly called out General Musa, saying:
“This message is for General Christopher Musa. Repent and stop your mission. Like those before you Buratai, Attahiru, Lagbaja you will not succeed. You will regret your efforts against us. There will be no peace until democracy ends.”
He declared that the entire Nigerian military was an enemy force, regardless of religion.
“Every soldier defending democracy is our enemy. Even if you are a Muslim, once you wear that uniform, you are one of them, and we will fight you.”
Attempt to Undermine the Military from Within
The self-proclaimed leader also tried to sow division within the military ranks by portraying service as a futile and unrewarding venture.
“Leave that job. You can barely feed your families with it. Come and follow us.”
Targeting Clerics and Civilians
Muslim scholars who preach against the group’s ideology were also threatened.
“Those clerics who call us unbelievers—stop misleading the people. If you speak against us, we will not spare you.”
He extended the threats to ordinary citizens, particularly traders and community members cooperating with the military, warning:
“Anyone helping the military is an unbeliever. You will be killed.”
Propaganda as Psychological Warfare
Security analysts have described the video as a psychological operation aimed at weakening public trust in the military and discouraging collaboration between civilians and security agencies. A defence source told PRNigeria:
“This is classic propaganda designed to spread fear, break the spirit of our troops, and intimidate communities.”
Despite the intensity of the threats, Nigeria’s military is yet to issue an official response. However, senior officials have in the past dismissed such messages as signs of Boko Haram’s desperation amid growing military pressure.
General Musa, in his earlier statement, had affirmed the military’s resolve:
“These terrorists will either surrender or be eliminated. There is no middle ground.”
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