Boko Haram commander, Shekau threatens CDS, Muslim clerics in new viral video

A man claiming to be a new Boko Haram commander and referring to himself as the new “Shekau” has issued a series of alarming threats directed at Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, as well as Muslim clerics, security personnel, and communities collaborating with the military’s counter-insurgency efforts.

The video message, which was reportedly obtained and translated by PRNigeria, appears to be a direct response to an earlier statement by General Musa. Speaking in Hausa, the CDS had warned that Boko Haram fighters had only two options: surrender or face total annihilation by the Nigerian Armed Forces.

In retaliation, the insurgent dismissed the military’s warnings, urging General Musa and his forces to abandon their mission. He boldly declared that, like previous military leaders, Musa would fail in his efforts to defeat Boko Haram.

READ ALSO: Nigerian border won’t be used to attack Niger Republic, others – Gen. Musa

“This message is for General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff. We call on you to repent and cease your actions, for you will not succeed against those of us fighting your government,” the insurgent declared. “You will face dire consequences and regret your attempts to defeat us. Peace can only be achieved by abandoning democracy and embracing a new way of life.”

He went on to cite the perceived failures of former military leaders. “TY Buratai came and gave it his all without success. General Attahiru and General Lagbaja also came and didn’t last long. The same fate awaits you and your men,” he threatened.

The insurgent further declared war against all Nigerian soldiers, regardless of their faith. “Every soldier who wears the uniform to defend democracy—whether Muslim or not—is our enemy, and we will fight them with all our strength.”

In the video, the militant also attempted to lure troops into defecting, portraying the military as a thankless job. “Please, repent and leave that job from which you barely feed. Come and follow us,” he urged.

He also issued warnings to Islamic clerics who publicly condemn Boko Haram’s extremist ideology, accusing them of misleading the public. “Muslim scholars who give sermons and try to confuse people by claiming we don’t follow the right religion should beware,” he said. “We call on you to join us. If you refuse, know that we won’t force you—but if you defame us, we will crush you.”

Communities and traders who support the armed forces were not spared in the threats. “Anyone aiding the military against us will be killed. They are unbelievers because they support democracy,” the terrorist asserted.

The video has sparked renewed concerns over Boko Haram’s propaganda machinery and recruitment strategies, especially at a time when the Nigerian military is intensifying its operations across the North-East and other troubled regions.

Security analysts believe the video is part of a psychological warfare campaign aimed at instilling fear, undermining morale, and challenging the resolve of both the security forces and the public in the ongoing war against terrorism.