Shekau 'still in charge' of Nigeria's Boko Haram

An audio message has emerged from Nigerian-based Islamist militant group Boko Haram's leader Abubakar Shekau, in which he denied he has been replaced. 

In the message, addressed to the leader of the Islamic State militant group to whom Boko Haram has pledged allegiance, Mr Shekau said he is still in command. 

He had not featured in the group's recent videos, prompting speculation he had been killed or incapacitated.

Last week, the Chadian President said Mr Shekau had been replaced. 

He described as “blatant lies” reports that he is no longer in charge. 

Mr Shekau took over as the group's leader after its founder, Muhammad Yusuf, died in Nigerian police custody in July 2009. 

Under his leadership, Boko Haram has become more radical and has carried out more killings.

BBC