Intelligence community clarifies Shekau’s death, BH-ISWAP long-running battle before, after

Following an avalanche of media report on the death of Boko Haram’s Abubakar Shekau, the Nigerian intelligence has come out with a clarification.

Shekau reportedly blew himself up to avoid being captured alive by the invading Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

In a situation report (SITREP) on Thursday, the community confirmed the terrorist leader died Wednesday evening during a battle for supremacy:

“On 19th May 2021, about 1829hours, ISWAP top fighter Baana DUGURI – on this selector – geolocated around Sambisa forest, Pulka Gwoza LGA BRS, informed ISWAP logistics commander MODU SULUM – geolocated opposite General hospital Konduga LGA Borno State that they killed ABUBAKAR SHEKAU overall BH leader in Sambisa forest.

“DUGURI disclosed that the ISWAP fighters’ team surrounded the BH leader with his team and shooting ensued between the 2 factions. DUGURI further added that SHEKAU detonated a bomb and killed himself when he observed that the ISWAP fighters wanted to capture him alive.

“Furthermore, DUGURI informed SULUM that the two sides also lost some fighters during the shooting. He averred that even yesterday, ISWAP was pursuing ABUBAKAR SHEKAU and SHEKAU discarded his cap and ran but today the pursuit continued and he was finally killed. DUGURI asked MODU SULUM if the other BH members who fled are returning to their houses?

“In his response, SULUM rejoiced over the death of ABUBAKAR SHEKAU and glorified God over the success. He also said few BH members are returning to their houses.”