NIGERIA: A popular Nigerian content creator and vocal social media crusader known as D English Alhaji has narrated a chilling encounter after armed bandits reached him via an unsolicited WhatsApp video call, openly displaying sophisticated firearms and ammunition while issuing direct threats.
In a video posted on May 10, 2026, which quickly amassed hundreds of thousands of views and widespread shares across platforms, D English Alhaji described picking up the call from individuals who had obtained his publicly listed WhatsApp number from his Facebook page. “Bandits called me on a video call,” read the caption of the disturbing clip.
According to the influencer, who is well-known for documenting bandit activities particularly in northern Nigeria and Plateau State, the callers did not conceal their faces. They appeared emboldened, brandishing weapons and bandoliers of bullets on camera in what he interpreted as a clear intimidation tactic. They questioned his religious identity, asked him to recite Islamic verses, switched languages during the conversation, and warned him to stop advocating for the summary execution of criminals and exposing their movements.
“One of them warned me against speaking and asking that they be killed summarily… what if they catch me and kill me the same way I advocate for them to be killed,” D English Alhaji recounted. He expressed fear for his life, stating that some details of the threats were too sensitive to disclose publicly. Despite the ordeal, he affirmed his resolve: “I don’t plan to stop agitating for better security. I have channelled my life to it and we must fight this insecurity to the end.”
Technology and Crime
The incident has ignited outrage and fresh anxiety among Nigerians already grappling with rampant banditry, kidnappings, and insecurity, especially in the North-West and North-Central regions. Security analysts note that criminal groups are increasingly leveraging digital tools like social media and messaging apps to identify, monitor, and intimidate targets — a troubling evolution in their tactics.
D English Alhaji’s activism often involves real-time reporting on attacks, sharing videos and alerts that pressure security agencies to respond. His followers and online commentators have praised his courage while expressing shock at the bandits’ audacity in directly contacting a public figure. Some users shared alleged images of the callers, further amplifying the story.
The episode underscores the intersection of technology and crime in contemporary Nigeria. Many citizens have reported similar cases of harassment, extortion, and threats through phone calls and social media. Experts urge stronger regulation of telecom networks, better digital security awareness, and more effective intelligence operations to counter these threats.
Broader Implications
The development has also fuelled pointed public criticism of Nigeria’s security apparatus. Commentators question why security forces appear swift to arrest vocal critics of government policies or those highlighting issues within the military — such as activist Justice Mark Chidiebere (known as Justice Crack), who remains in detention after being arrested for exposing alleged poor feeding and welfare conditions of frontline soldiers fighting bandits — yet struggle to track and apprehend armed groups operating with apparent confidence.
Security experts advise anyone receiving suspicious video calls from unknown numbers to avoid engagement, record evidence where safe, and report promptly to the police or cybercrime authorities.
D English Alhaji’s terrifying experience serves as a stark reminder of the personal risks faced by those who shine a light on Nigeria’s security challenges. It highlights the urgent need for more proactive, intelligence-driven responses to restore public confidence and safety.
