Multiple Casualties as Escalating Rivalry Between Boko Haram, ISWAP Spreads to North West, North Central
By: Zagazola Makama
Clashes between Boko Haram factions Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati Wal-Jihad (JAS) and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have intensified in the Lake Chad region, leading to significant casualties on both sides.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama, that the renewed hostilities stem from ideological and territorial disputes, as ISWAP continues to push for stricter governance under Islamic law, while JAS maintains a more localized insurgency approach.
In a bid to reconcile the groups, Bakura Doro, alias Abu Ummaima, reportedly wrote to the ISWAP Shura Council seeking negotiations, but the effort collapsed, leading to more violent engagements.
The fighting is not confined to the Lake Chad Basin alone; the rivalry has extended into Nigeria’s North West and North Central regions, where extremist groups are vying for dominance over smuggling routes, recruitment bases, and local sympathizers.
Beyond the Lake Chad region, the rivalry between Boko Haram and ISWAP has spilled over into the North West and North Central, where the extremist groups are clashing with bandit factions over control of resources and territory.
Recent intelligence suggests that Bakura-led Boko Haram cells in Kwarangal, Ali Mondula, and Libi Soro are sending trained fighters in batches of 15 to reinforce Saddiku-led camps in Niger State.
These fighters, under the supervision of a lieutenant named Mallam Bara, are being deployed to counter the growing influence of the notorious bandit-turned-warlord, Dogo Gide.
Dogo Gide, originally affiliated with Boko Haram, later broke away and established his own faction in the North West and North Central regions. He has since vowed to protect local communities from Boko Haram and ISWAP attacks, further complicating the security situation.
His forces have been engaged in violent clashes with Boko Haram elements attempting to expand their influence in areas such as Madawaki and Allawa in Niger State.
Meanwhile, Boko Haram has been regaining control over dismantled ISWAP camps in northern Lake Chad, raising concerns about potential attacks on military bases in the region.
The failed peace talks between JAS and ISWAP have led to intensified hostilities, which may paradoxically weaken both groups and create opportunities for counterterrorism forces to exploit their divisions.
