A man identified as a suspected member of Boko Haram has made startling claims during an interrogation, alleging that his group operates under the influence of a senior military figure based in Abuja.
In a video circulating online, the suspect, tied to a tree while being questioned by security personnel, repeatedly referred to an unnamed figure he described as “Manga Manga” and “Baban soja,” a Hausa phrase meaning “big soldier.”
Speaking in a mix of Hausa and Nigerian Pidgin, the man claimed his immediate commander works directly under the alleged figure.
“My oga dey work for that big soldier for Abuja,” he said, insisting that their operations are connected to the high-ranking officer.
The suspect also alleged that his superior’s family is currently with the same individual in Abuja, adding that he could lead security forces to the person if certain conditions were met.
“If una loose me, I go show everything,” he said, repeatedly asking to be untied before revealing more details. Despite persistent questioning, the suspect maintained his stance, refusing to provide further information unless his demand was granted.
When asked about weapons, he denied possessing any firearm. “I no get gun,” he said. The claims have not been independently verified, and authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the allegations or the identity of the individuals mentioned. Meanwhile, security experts often caution that statements made under duress during interrogations should be treated carefully until properly investigated.
However, experts say the real battle may now be one of credibility. “The biggest threat is not just the insurgents,” one security analyst noted, “but the erosion of trust in the system meant to defeat them.”
