General Mustapha Claims Boko Haram Emerged from Early Protection Efforts

Retired military officer General Mustapha has publicly stated that the extremist group Boko Haram initially gained traction after receiving support and protection from local authorities.

In comments that have drawn widespread attention, Mustapha said, “Boko Haram started because we protected them. They started as a small group, we brought them in & said they are our brothers and family until they started attacking us.”

The statement highlights the complex and often overlooked early dynamics that contributed to the rise of Boko Haram, which has since become one of Nigeria’s deadliest insurgent groups.

Analysts note that the revelation underscores challenges in early counter-insurgency strategies and the unintended consequences of incorporating local militant groups into broader social or political networks.

Mustapha’s remarks have sparked debate on accountability, historical responsibility, and lessons for contemporary security policy in the Northeast region, where Boko Haram continues to impact communities despite ongoing military efforts to curb its activities.