Irrespective of the numerous video releases, Shekau remains elusive and has not been seen in public since 2010. His video appearances show the Boko Haram leader with an assault rifle, shaking his hand, portraying himself as a confident leader that seeks no apology. His confidence is overflowing as he has distinguished himself for his brutality and being the leader who has transformed Boko Haram from a local insurgency group involved in small-armed assaults and petrol-bombings to a feared transregional terrorist organisation with sophisticated arms.