By Abdul Lauya
A purported Boko Haram commander has released a video claiming to be the new “Shekau.”
In the footage, he threatened Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, along with Muslim clerics, soldiers, and civilians aiding the military.
The threats appear to respond directly to Musa’s Hausa-language warning that terrorists would surrender or be wiped out.
Speaking in Hausa, the militant ordered the military to abandon its campaign or face “dire consequences.”
He declared that like his predecessors, Musa would fail against Boko Haram’s armed insurgency.
“This message is for the Chief of Defence Staff,” the insurgent said, urging him to “repent and cease.”
He warned that democracy must fall for peace to reign, calling the war against them futile.
The terrorist cited former chiefs Buratai, Attahiru, and Lagbaja as examples of failed military might.
He claimed their downfall would be repeated in Musa’s tenure, promising bloodshed and regret.
Targeting all military personnel, he labeled them enemies regardless of faith or origin.
He mocked the military profession, portraying it as a “thankless job” and urged defections.
The militant also called on soldiers to quit and join Boko Haram’s ideology.
Muslim clerics who oppose Boko Haram were warned to stop “defaming” the group.
He threatened that any preacher misrepresenting their faith would be “crushed.”
Civilians, especially traders and communities supporting the government, were marked for elimination.
Anyone aiding security forces was labeled an infidel and “deserving of death.”
The video has reignited fears about Boko Haram’s propaganda and psychological warfare tactics.
Security experts view the footage as an attempt to recruit, intimidate, and destabilize.
Intriguingly, the figure in the video revives the legacy of late Abubakar Shekau.
Shekau, known for brutality, was rumored to have used body doubles before his confirmed death.
He was declared dead multiple times, only to reappear and release fresh threats.
The new “Shekau” persona raises questions about deception, succession, and Boko Haram’s fractured leadership.
Analysts warn the resurgence of a “Shekau figure” could embolden splinter factions and boost recruitment.
The timing of this propaganda video coincides with intensified military offensives in the North-East.
Nigerian forces remain on alert as the insurgents shift strategy from combat to fear-based messaging.
