Deadly Boko Haram–ISWAP infighting claims scores of fighters in Sambisa forest

Scores of fighters were reportedly killed following a week-long surge of violent infighting between rival jihadist factions—Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP)—across the Sambisa Forest axis of Borno State.

The development was disclosed by counter-insurgency analyst, Zagazola Makama, who cited security sources familiar with the clashes.

According to the report, the renewed hostilities erupted on January 3, after ISWAP launched a coordinated assault on camps loyal to a Boko Haram faction around the Ali Ngulde axis of the Mandara Mountains.

Security sources said the ISWAP offensive was led by two commanders identified as Jundullah and Ibn Hataf.

However, the attack was met with strong resistance, as Boko Haram fighters mounted a counter-ambush coordinated by a field commander known as Abu-Rijal, also referred to as Ba-Sulhu.

During the encounter, dozens of ISWAP fighters were reportedly killed, while several others were captured alive. Weapons allegedly seized by Boko Haram fighters included AK-47 rifles, a general-purpose machine gun (GPMG), an anti-aircraft gun and assorted ammunition.

Footage that resurfaced during the week, and which Makama said was obtained from sources within the conflict zone, showed captured ISWAP fighters being killed by rival combatants, amid claims of victory by the Boko Haram faction.

The footage underscored the brutality that has long characterised internecine struggles among insurgent groups operating in the forested enclaves around Lake Chad in Borno State.

However, the balance of power reportedly shifted days later. On January 6, ISWAP fighters were said to have launched a retaliatory assault on a Boko Haram stronghold in the Sabil Huda axis.

The counter-attack triggered hours of intense gunfire, with ISWAP forces eventually overrunning the position.

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At least 12 Boko Haram fighters were reportedly killed in the retaliatory strike, while ISWAP fighters were said to have seized additional weapons from the camp.

The renewed violence also had humanitarian implications within the insurgent camps. Sources disclosed that Boko Haram families, including women and children, were forced to relocate from contested areas to perceived safer locations around the Yale General axis.

Night operations were reportedly conducted by both factions to track fleeing fighters, although no further confirmed engagements had been recorded as of Wednesday.

Analysts note that the clashes are part of a long-standing rivalry between Boko Haram and ISWAP, driven by ideological differences, leadership disputes, and competition for territory, resources and fighters.

Security sources say both factions are currently re-arming and repositioning, raising concerns over the possibility of further confrontations in the coming days.