Boko Haram, ISWAP Renew Deadly Supremacy Battle In Northern Nigeria

A recent nine-minute video released by Boko Haram’s Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati Wal-Jihad (JAS) has revealed heightened clashes with their rivals, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

The video, titled “Kill Them Wherever You Find Them: A Struggle Between the Believers and the Apostates Inside the Islamic Caliphate,” portrays fierce confrontations between the two groups.

The violent encounters reportedly occurred between December 23 and 24, 2024, in several locations within Abadam Local Government Area of Borno State, including Toumbun Gini, Toumbun Sale, Mangari, and Metele.

The footage highlights the growing intensity of the conflict between these factions, with graphic scenes of heavy fighting and significant casualties.

The ongoing rivalry points to deepening divisions within the extremist landscape.

Lake Chad-based conflict analyst, Zagazola Makama has extensively documented the clashes, emphasizing the increasing fragmentation among terror groups in the region.

Analysts warn that this internal conflict could exacerbate insecurity, threatening civilian lives and disrupting humanitarian operations in affected areas.

The escalating rivalry serves as a stark reminder of the enduring security challenges faced by Nigeria and neighboring countries.