Popular Nigerian digital creator English Alhaji has raised alarm over receiving threatening phone calls from suspected bandits, a development that underscores the escalating insecurity in Nigeria. In a video shared on his Instagram page, Alhaji revealed that he was contacted via WhatsApp video call by armed individuals who allegedly threatened him for his recent public comments on how to handle bandits. The incident has sparked widespread concern and highlighted the risks faced by public figures who speak out on national security issues.
The calls came just a week after English Alhaji publicly commended the youths of Achepe community in Nasarawa State for repelling a bandit attack. While praising their bravery, he criticized their decision to hand over captured suspects to the military, calling it a serious mistake. “Why? Why? Do you want the army to reintegrate them? Abi the once they integrate never do una? You want them to integrate more of the terrorist? Why handling them over to the military? Unalive this boys. You no catch them and collected the AK-47 rifle from them, kpai them. Why giving them to the police again? Youth of Achepe, una no do well for that one oo,” he said in the video.
In the disturbing call, the suspects reportedly showed Alhaji ammunition and openly threatened him for urging Nigerians to eliminate bandits rather than surrender them to security forces. “Nigerians, so yesterday in the afternoon bandits called me on a video call. You can see the confidence, you guys are no longer hiding. They no longer cover their face, they’re everywhere. They got my WhatsApp number on my Facebook page. They turned their camera to show me ammunition. Na now I know the kind danger wey I dey,” he stated.
He further disclosed that one of the callers directly referenced his advice, saying, “This thing wey I dey tell people to unalive them when they catch them, don’t hand them over to the military, kpai them. They said what if they catch me, they will do that same thing to me.” Alhaji shared a recorded clip of the call as evidence, emphasizing the real and immediate threat to his life.
The incident has drawn attention to the growing boldness of armed groups operating in Nigeria’s insecure regions. It also raises questions about the safety of individuals who use their platforms to advocate for self-defense or criticize official security responses. As banditry continues to plague communities across the country, the case of English Alhaji serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who speak out. The situation remains under watch, and security agencies have been urged to investigate the threats and ensure the safety of the digital creator.
Leave a Comment