Over a week ago, the Nigeian military forces claimed a man believed to be impersonating the leader of the group was killed in an ambush in Konduga, Borno State. Pictures of the dead body were shown and compared to the pictures obtained from videos of the group's leader.
In the new 36-minute video, obtained by AFP on Thursday, Abubakar Shekau dismissed Nigerian military claims of his death as he stated that Islamist militants had implemented strict Islamic law in captured towns.
“Here I am, alive. I will only die the day Allah takes my breath,” Shekau said in the video. He also disclosed that the "Islamic caliphate" is being run by his men and sharia punishments are being administered.
“Here I am, alive. I will only die the day Allah takes my breath,” Shekau said in the video. He also disclosed that the "Islamic caliphate" is being run by his men and sharia punishments are being administered.
Meanwhile, opinions are divided about the authenticity of the video. Three possibilities have been outlined, the first being that the video was probably recorded in anticipation of Mallam Shekau's death or that another look-alike has been found and costumed for the role. The third belief being held by Nigerians in some quarters is that the real Shekau is still alive.
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