A recent surge in clashes between Boko Haram and the Islamic State of the West African Province (ISWAP) in Borno State has resulted in the deaths of at least 85 terrorists.
According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency expert and security analyst in the Lake Chad region, the intense clashes occurred between April 24 and 25, 2024.
Makama reported that ISWAP mobilized its fighters to reinforce its positions in Tumbum Allura, which was recently recaptured from Boko Haram. The group also moved fighters from Sabon Tumbu and Kirta Wulgo towards Tumbum Allura, Daban Wanzam, and Abuja Ruwa, armed with over 30 boxes of ammunition and weapons.
The clashes resumed when ISWAP launched another attack on Boko Haram at Tudun Shawakki, Tumbum Bakwarram, Mallam Basiru, and Kwaleram, killing several fighters. On April 25, ISWAP attacked Boko Haram positions in Kandahar and Tumbum Ali Island in Marte LGA, engaging in a fierce gun battle from 1 am to 5 am on April 26.
According to Makama, ISWAP gained the upper hand, killing over 70 Boko Haram fighters and capturing several others alive, along with their weapons. The security expert believes that the ongoing clashes between the two rival groups provide an opportunity for government security forces to launch a decisive blow and eliminate the terror threat in the Lake Chad Basin.
The incessant clashes have also led to the dislodgement of Boko Haram from several islands previously seized from ISWAP. Makama suggested that security forces seize this momentum to exterminate the two groups and restore peace to the region.
