Mohammed Yusuf, Nigerian Islamist leader, founded Boko Haram (d. 2009)

Mohammed Yusuf (29 January 1970 – 30 July 2009), also known as Ustaz Mohammed Yusuf, was the pivotal Nigerian religious figure who founded and led the radical Islamist terrorist group, Boko Haram.

Who Was Mohammed Yusuf?

Born on January 29, 1970, in Girgir village, located in the Jakusko area of present-day Yobe State, Nigeria, Mohammed Yusuf embarked on a path that would profoundly impact his nation. He received a local education, primarily focused on Islamic studies. Over time, he deepened his knowledge of Islam, eventually adopting the tenets of Salafism, a reform movement within Sunni Islam that advocates for a return to what its adherents believe are the pure practices of the early Muslim community.

As an "Ustaz," a title denoting a teacher or master, particularly in religious contexts, Yusuf was renowned for his charismatic preaching. He attracted a significant following by articulating a vision that vehemently rejected Western education and governance, which he viewed as corrupting influences. His teachings emphasized strict adherence to Islamic law (Sharia) and the establishment of an Islamic state in Nigeria, drawing many, especially disadvantaged youths, who felt alienated by the existing societal structures.

Foundation and Ideology of Boko Haram

In 2002, Mohammed Yusuf established the group that would become infamously known as Boko Haram. While its popular name is widely recognized, the organization's official Arabic designation is "Jama'atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda'awati wal-Jihad." This translates to "People Committed to the Propagation of the Teachings and Jihad," clearly outlining its initial religious and proselytizing mission alongside the concept of holy struggle.

The popular name, "Boko Haram," which roughly translates from the Hausa language as "Western education is forbidden" or "Western education is sinful," encapsulates a core tenet of Yusuf's ideology. He specifically condemned secular education, often associating it with corruption and a departure from Islamic principles. Initially founded in Maiduguri, Borno State, the movement started as a non-violent religious group focused on purifying Islam in Nigeria and establishing a society governed by strict Sharia law. Yusuf even established a religious complex in Maiduguri, comprising a mosque and an Islamic school, which served as a hub for his followers.

The 2009 Uprising and Yusuf's Death

Under Mohammed Yusuf's leadership, Boko Haram's stance against the Nigerian state grew increasingly confrontational, culminating in a violent uprising in July 2009. This significant escalation of hostilities, primarily centered in Maiduguri, Borno State, quickly spread to other northern Nigerian states, including Bauchi, Yobe, and Kano. The Nigerian military launched an extensive crackdown in response to the insurgency.

During this intense period of conflict, Mohammed Yusuf was captured by the Nigerian military. He was subsequently handed over to the Nigerian police. Tragically, on July 30, 2009, Yusuf was killed while in police custody. His death, which many human rights organizations have since categorized as an extrajudicial killing, proved to be a pivotal moment for Boko Haram. Far from quelling the insurgency, Yusuf's controversial demise ignited further radicalization among his followers, transforming the group from a more localized, religiously-driven movement into a brutal, full-scale terrorist organization responsible for widespread violence and instability across Nigeria and the broader Lake Chad Basin region.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mohammed Yusuf and Boko Haram

When was Mohammed Yusuf born and when did he die?

Mohammed Yusuf was born on January 29, 1970, and was killed on July 30, 2009, during the 2009 Boko Haram uprising.

What is the official name of Boko Haram and what does it mean?

The official name of Boko Haram is Jama'atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda'awati wal-Jihad. In Arabic, this translates to "People Committed to the Propagation of the Teachings and Jihad." The popular name "Boko Haram" means "Western education is forbidden" in Hausa, reflecting a core tenet of the group's ideology.

Where was Mohammed Yusuf from?

Mohammed Yusuf was born in Girgir village, located in the Jakusko area of present-day Yobe State, Nigeria.

What was Mohammed Yusuf's religious ideology?

Mohammed Yusuf was a Salafi. His ideology emphasized a return to what he perceived as the pure practices of early Islam and a rejection of Western influences, particularly in education and governance, which he considered un-Islamic and corrupting.