More than 23 terrorists have reportedly been killed in renewed clashes between rival factions of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in the Sambisa Forest area of Borno State.
According to counter-terrorism expert, the latest confrontation occurred around the Chingolo axis of Bama Local Government Area, where Boko Haram fighters reportedly attacked ISWAP members advancing into the area.
He disclosed the development in a post on X, describing the incident as part of a renewed wave of hostilities between the two rival terrorist groups that began about two days ago.
He said available footage indicated that the confrontation involved sustained exchanges of gunfire as both factions attempted to consolidate their positions and prevent the other from expanding its influence within the forest.
Preliminary intelligence suggests that more than 23 terrorists have been killed on both sides since the latest round of fighting began, although the exact number of casualties suffered by each faction could not be independently verified.
He said the renewed hostilities reflect the longstanding rivalry between Boko Haram and ISWAP over territory, access routes, resources and control of fighters operating in the Sambisa Forest and surrounding areas.
He explained that the latest fighting reportedly started after ISWAP elements moved into the Chingolo area, prompting Boko Haram fighters to launch an attack against them.
According to him, the confrontation could further weaken both terrorist factions and disrupt their operations in an area that has historically served as a major operational base for insurgents in Borno State.
Makama added that security forces are closely monitoring developments and using available intelligence to track the movements and activities of the rival factions.
He noted that the renewed infighting could place additional pressure on both groups as Nigerian security forces continue counter-terrorism operations across the North-East.
“The military has continued to target terrorist concentrations, logistics networks and hideouts as part of efforts to degrade the insurgents and deny them freedom of action,” he said.
He, however, urged communities around the Sambisa Forest to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to security authorities.
