Horrible Movies

A Content Analysis of Propaganda Videos of Boko Haram Terrorist Sect in Nigeria

Authors

  • ‘Femi M. Olufunmilade Igbinedion University Okada

Abstract

In 2009, what was hitherto an obscure Islamic sect began its metamorphosis into a terrorist organization that became one of the four deadliest terrorist groups in the world. In 2009, leader of Boko Haram sect in the northeastern region of Nigeria, Muhammed Yusuf, was murdered extra-judicially while in the custody of the Nigerian Police. In revenge, Yusuf’s followers, prominently including his deputy, Sheikh Abubakar Shekau, went underground to plot a jihad, which has left thousands dead and millions homeless in its wake for a full decade. The aim of this article is to underscore the fact that the horror videos released by Boko Haram periodically is indeed a powerful instrument of its campaign of terror. In this regard, the article analyses the contents of the periodic videos that are released by Boko Haram and identifies their objectives, ranging from luring young people into its fighting force to sending across the world message of its strength and omnipresence. It concludes that the videos are, indeed, propaganda tools aimed at set objectives in furtherance of the ultimate goal of establishing an Islamic Caliphate.

Author Biography

‘Femi M. Olufunmilade, Igbinedion University Okada

Femi M. Olufunmilade holds a doctorate degree in Political Science and specializes in International Relations and Strategic Studies. At Igbinedion University Okada, Nigeria, he is a Professor of International Security and an international faculty member of Global Understanding program of East Carolina University, Greenville, USA. He is pioneer Director, Buratai Center for Contemporary Security Affairs, Igbinedion University.

Published

2021-03-05

Issue

Vol. 9 No. 1 (2021): Proceedings of the 5th Global Issues Conference

Section

Global Issues Conference Proceedings

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