Shekau Responds to his Critics1

(18 DECEMBER 2016) [Trans.: Abdulbasit Kassim] In this audio lecture, Shekau reiterated the ideological differences that led to the factionalization of Boko Haram (see texts 70–72). Although this audio could be seen as a response to some of the allegations by Mamman Nur concerning him, specifically the allegation that he murders his close associates for trivial offenses, Shekau ends up more or less proving Nur’s general accusation. Much of the audio concerns the plot of one Abu Ammar (or Baba Ammar) to undermine Shekau’s leadership, and turns on the issue of the killing of Taasi’u, who supported Abu Ammar. Shekau defended himself by saying that the close associates he had killed attempted to undermine his authority, thereby violating the law they all pledged to follow. He stressed that no member of the group is killed without committing an offence. This lecture shows that Shekau is facing a crisis of legitimacy with other top echelons of Boko Haram, and there seems to be a competition by factional leaders to win the support of the mid-level and foot soldiers...