Over 23 Terrorists Killed as Boko Haram, ISWAP Clash Again in Sambisa Forest

More than 23 terrorists have reportedly been killed in renewed clashes between rival Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP, factions in the Sambisa Forest area of Borno State.

Counter-terrorism expert Zagazola Makama disclosed the development in a post on X, saying the latest confrontation occurred around the Chingolo axis of Bama Local Government Area.

Makama said Boko Haram fighters attacked ISWAP members who were reportedly advancing into the area, triggering another round of deadly fighting between the rival groups.

According to the security expert, the confrontation is part of a renewed wave of hostilities that began about two days earlier, with both factions seeking to strengthen their positions and prevent their rival from expanding its influence within the forest.

He said available footage indicated sustained exchanges of fire as the groups battled for territorial control. Preliminary intelligence, he added, suggested that more than 23 terrorists had been killed on both sides since the latest fighting began.

However, Makama noted that the exact number of casualties suffered by each faction could not immediately be independently verified.

The renewed clashes are believed to be linked to the longstanding rivalry between Boko Haram and ISWAP over territory, access routes, resources and control of fighters operating in the Sambisa Forest and surrounding communities.

Makama said the latest confrontation was reportedly triggered by the movement of ISWAP elements into the Chingolo area, prompting Boko Haram fighters to launch an attack against them.

He added that the infighting could further weaken both terrorist factions and disrupt their operations in an area that has historically served as a major base for insurgent activities in Borno State.

The security expert said security forces were monitoring the situation and using available intelligence to track the movements and activities of the rival groups.

He further noted that the renewed fighting could place additional pressure on both factions as Nigerian troops 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.

Makama also urged communities around the Sambisa Forest to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements to security authorities as the latest round of Boko Haram-ISWAP fighting unfolds.