At least 23 fighters have reportedly been killed following renewed clashes between Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in the Sambisa Forest area of Borno State.
The casualties were recorded during two days of fighting between the rival terrorist factions, which have repeatedly engaged in violent confrontations over territorial control and influence in Nigeria’s North-East.
Counter-terrorism analyst Zagazola Makama disclosed the development in a post on 𝕏, stating that the latest confrontation occurred around Chingolo in Bama Local Government Area.
According to Makama, the clash began after ISWAP fighters moved into the Chingolo axis, an area where Boko Haram elements were already operating.
The development reportedly triggered an attack by Boko Haram fighters, leading to prolonged exchanges of gunfire as both groups sought to defend their positions.
Makama said intelligence reports indicated that the violence formed part of renewed hostilities between the two factions that started about two days earlier.
“More than 23 fighters from both sides have been killed since the clashes began,” Makama stated.
He explained that both groups were attempting to prevent each other from expanding their influence within the Sambisa Forest, a situation that resulted in the latest round of violence.
Security agencies are said to be monitoring the movements of the rival factions while gathering intelligence from the ongoing confrontation.
Makama noted that the renewed infighting could further weaken both groups at a time when military operations against terrorist camps and logistics networks continue 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.
Despite reports of heavy losses among the rival groups, residents of communities surrounding the Sambisa Forest have been urged to remain vigilant.
According to Makama, security officials advised locals to promptly report suspicious activities or unusual movements as operations continue in the area.
“Security officials have urged communities in areas surrounding the Sambisa Forest to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements to the authorities,” he added.
The latest clashes underscore the continuing rivalry between Boko Haram and ISWAP, whose internal battles over territory and influence have frequently led to deadly confrontations in the North-East, even as security forces sustain pressure on insurgent strongholds.
